More Awesome Than You!

73 Road To Nowhere.

(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll294/Emma_M_71/73_Road_To_Nowhere/73_Road_To_Nowhere_Front.jpg)

(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll294/Emma_M_71/73_Road_To_Nowhere/73_Road_To_Nowhere_Basement.jpg)

(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll294/Emma_M_71/73_Road_To_Nowhere/73_Road_To_Nowhere_1st.jpg)

(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll294/Emma_M_71/73_Road_To_Nowhere/73_Road_To_Nowhere_Back.jpg)

(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll294/Emma_M_71/73_Road_To_Nowhere/73_Road_To_Nowhere_Roof.jpg)

Rules, copy-pasta'd from last month:

1. No CC.  Please indicate needed expansions and stuff packs so people who wish to download your lot know what to expect.  Pictures are required, either available for download, on a slideshow, or posted in this thread.

2. By entering this challenge, you agree to take constructive criticism.  If you wish to judge someone else's entry, you should be respectful but honest.

3. Your lot does not have to be Awesomespec, although it is encouraged.

4. You may move internal walls and add external walls but you may NOT move original external walls.

5. Lots may be furnished, unfurnished, or partially furnished.  You can even upload both furnished and unfurnished versions.

*PLEASE NOTE* Since this is an Eaxis-designed lot, it may or may not have level edges.  Place at your own risk.

New for this lot:
6. Basement must be left in, however, it can be expanded. It must not be made smaller!

(Use Clean Installer to install as I got this from my game which has all EPs/SPs. If not, you can get the original lot from a clean install of your game. Just rename the 'Sims 2' folder and run the game to generate.)

Download 73 Road to Nowhere.zip (http://www.4shared.com/file/57328726/3b476a8c/73_Road_to_Nowhere.html)

OMG Emma, your so mean!

(Actually the proportions aren't too bad).

Can't wait to see what everyone comes up with.

Yeah, it is a bit of a stinker. ;D

Oh good choice. I loathe that house. It's up there with Harmonious Haven in the "What were they thinking?" (or not) stakes.  :o

I shall look foward to changing this...

Wtf is up with that narrow passage to the front door? I can just see sims get stuck there. Forever.

Ha, I knew you'd still pick this one!

*Eleonora moons Emma

I'll have a go at this one, was thinking about turning it into one of those 'Elizabethan" houses Veronaville has, or maybe something cottage-y. One question though, does the decking at the back have to be retained, or can I sledgehammer it?

Do we have to keep the fences? I'm just wondering in case the external walls rule applies to fences as well for some reason.

I don't think fences or decking qualify as major. Any change you could make in real life without blasting or a wrecking ball should be fair game.

Hmmm... do stairs apply as well?

Moving the stairs have never been an issue before.

I'm wondering if there's a reason for the cellar to be a floor and a half deep...

To keep the screams being heard by hapless future victims visiting guests?

I rebuilt this house of fail on a flat lot, and I'm pretty sure than other than the non-level edges, terrain bumps, and weird splotchy terrain paint, I made it just like the stupid original.  I plan to start with my slightly-less-fail version if that's OK.  So, I can has level edges, plz?

Anyway, what an interesting challenge this house will be.  Is it possible that EAxis has ever made a worse house than this one?

I didn't notice the lot didn't have level edges until I was nearly done. D: Waaah.

I'd fix the edges and share a fixed file, but unfortunately I'm stuck in Indiana until midday Sunday. Why didn't I check this last night? Why?

I'm actually happy that you picked this one, Emma.

I've forced many sims to live in it and I have a weird nostalgia in it's general direction.

That's the house I put my very first TS2 sim in.  Until she got stuck in an eternal pregnancy (her first).  I moved her & her husband to another lot and she had the baby immediately upon move in to the new lot.  Good thing I moved them as they went on to have 9 kids eventually, and that house would have been too small, especially as I was still in Sims 1 frame of mind when it came to building or expanding (i.e. sims like BIG rooms, the bigger the better).

So yeah, I feel kinda nostalgic about that lot too.  This month's House of Fail will be interesting.

Like Kyna, this house was my very first exposure to TS2. It was also my first building project. It drove me so nuts that I moved half of my family out & the game popped up with 'would you like to put these sims in the sim bin'. Of course I didn't want to throw them out, so I said no, and then I couldn't find them (gee, I wonder why! :P) and I got so upset it was another two years before I played Strangetown again.

This is also the house that made me very aware that sims can't scooch across the bed & get very cranky about having only one side of the double bed accessable in that horribly narrow basement.

So far it's taken me four and a half hours, and I'm still not done. I'm going to bed. :D


*ETA omission due to fatigue.

You can fix your lot with LotAdjuster (http://www.modthesims2.com/showthread.php?t=282409).  I just didn't figure this out until after I had rebuilt it.  :P

Ornery woman, anyway! I can't wait to get a shot at this one! ;D
*throws sloppy sponges at Emma

It's definitely a challenge, esp with that PITA narrow walkway. I've never played that one, though. Off I go to see what sort of disaster I can create out of it.

I had the same nostalgic feeling over 190 Sim Lane as my first family is still there. I haven't been able to bring myself to go play them again as the founders are about to become elders. I just don't want to do that to them for some reason.

You could townify your founders and have them live in non-aging limbo forever. 

This house has potential.  Maybe August will be better than July for me to take on some building.

Any chance someone may share their FLAT-tened lot?

(sorry, channeling Tebqoter)

Here! The only change I made after using the LotAdjuster was using the 'flatten lot' tool to ensure proper flatness was achieved, which I forgot to undo before I packaged it up. Zipped with 7-zip.

(PS - I just spent some time working with it. The original long skinny entryway, which is made with *non-deletable external walls,* is a bitch to work around. :P)

From the outside this is a traditional family home, with garage, fishpond, and greenhouse ($199.000).  It has three front doors, and a rear exit, so sims can at least get out if the entrance is blocked by visitors. Eventually it will be as traditional inside as out, once the current occupier has found his/her niche in life, got a partner, started a family etc.  Said partner will hopefully tear down those awful curtains and redecorate throughout - tastefully.
 
Currently the house is set up for a young, single person who fancies him/herself as trendy.  So the decor is ... eclectic.

Personally, I wouldn't touch it with a bargepole, as I did this before the flattened lot was posted, so the edges are not level and it would definitely bork your hood.  If you're curious, though, you can get it at

http://www.4shared.com/file/57418443/4594cdb4/Jims_Nowhere.html (http://www.4shared.com/file/57418443/4594cdb4/Jims_Nowhere.html)

Front:
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3100/2723671688_6432423cf4.jpg?v=0)

Basement: set up as a little pleasure centre.
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3231/2722848243_5ffc9b2e6f.jpg?v=0)

Ground floor layout:
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3175/2723671358_a5bf682988.jpg?v=0)

Living/dining room (with the one desk):
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3032/2723671794_babfdbbec2.jpg?v=0)

Kitchen:
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3236/2722847869_5fe37212e3.jpg?v=0)

Nursery:
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3236/2722847977_8b3e8122a3.jpg?v=0)

First floor layout:
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3140/2722848687_fb12ee800f.jpg?v=0)

Master bedroom/bathroom:
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3080/2722848121_471f770c4a.jpg?v=0)

Guest bedroom/bathroom
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3003/2723671576_9d3ae74b41.jpg?v=0)

Balcony: Technically this is off-limits to guests, so you couldn't set up your own rock band, unless you put in a door from the lounge area to the hall.  The occupier is obviously hoping to produce a musical family some years down the line.

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3026/2722848403_6d628cfdb0.jpg?v=0)

jim, it's gorgeous! Love the exterior wallcover choices and the landscaping. And while I'm not usually a fan of purple, your living/dining area is really pretty (I like the effect of the repeating paintings). Also really like the nursery playroom's colours and carpeting. Good show, jim!

Very pretty jim ;D I love the entrance!

Jim, that is awesome.  Great job on the exterior decor...walls and landscaping.  Nice use of purple without being IN YOUR FACE PURPLE.

I love the flow of the house.  Small exception would be the red, blue and orange spawn room.  I would have tied in the purple again...but I love purple, so that's just me.

Very nicely done!  I can't wait to tackle this one when I have the time.  I have some good ideas, but wonder if someone will beat me to them.

Excellent choice of house for this month's EAxis Crap Makeover.

Jim, I like the colors that you used. It looks a lot happier than the original! :D

Here is my makeover:
http://thesims2.ea.com/exchange/lot_detail.php?asset_id=729600 (http://thesims2.ea.com/exchange/lot_detail.php?asset_id=729600)
I have all EPs and SPs except for Ikea

Views from the front and the back
(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e279/kalinagn/front_and_back.jpg)

Floor Plan:
(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e279/kalinagn/floor_plans.jpg)

Around the house:
(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e279/kalinagn/around_the_house.jpg)

I cheated a little when I placed the stairs to the basement - I removed one of the outside walls, placed the stairs to the basement and then re-built the wall the way it was. Is this OK?

Great idea about the monthly makeover challenges btw!

Orsum. And one of my first sims lived in the original. lol
Oddly enough, her last name was August.

@jim: I too, love the dining and lounge room. I've a real fondness for that zigzag grey floor. You've managed to create good space in quite a small area. Something I am quite phail at.

I do have one criticism, I'd have the stairs from the ground floor to the first floor turned in the other direction. Sims have to walk around the stairs to get to the next flight, then they end up one square away from the wall.

Well, maybe another, the colours in the nursery are from a different tonal range, heavier,they don't fit with your light touch elsewhere.

Otherwise, I really like it.


Doo doo doo do.

@kalinagn : Very nice and tidy and functional. Good routing and spaces in the main areas too. I always prefer double wide staircases. The blue bathroom is luverly! I like the souk look of the raised bath. I'd be interested in seeing you do more with colour though; the walls seem rather bland to me.

I'm also getting bored with seeing that same floor throughout so many houses.

Kanligan, that's quite nice! I like how the kitchen came together - a bit country without being, y'know, country. And like witch, I love the use of the stage in the bath! I may have to seal that am glad I thought of it.  ;)

Jim, I love the use of the balcony for your sims music sessions! Never would have thought of that and like everyone else, your use of the purple was great! It's not overdone but a beautiful accent, instead!

kalinagn: I, too, love the use of the stage for your tub. I'm not a huge fan of earth tones personally but I think you made a nice combination of them. I also think that a few more accenting colors here and there to draw the eye to key features would spice up the decor nicely. Overall lovely job!

Gran's Kitschy Cottage (http://www.4shared.com/file/57460932/29e0c49/Grans_Kitschy_Cottage.html?)

$105,120 - Beware, this lot was made from the original, terrain-wrecking lot. If you have the lot explander thingery and the motivation to fix things, I'd love a non-terrain-fucking version of this lot. Otherwise, download at your peril. :D

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v732/floopyboo/sims/Aug08/snapshot_00000003_95a0a399.jpg)



The kids have moved out & have kids of their own, and that holiday to Twikki Island sure gave Gran some fun decorating ideas, so when Pa said he wanted to turn the basement into a den, she decided to throw in a bar to compliment his growing model railroad. She continued the theme outside, turning the barbecue area into an oasis-themed garden with water feature.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v732/floopyboo/sims/Aug08/snapshot_00000003_d5a0a312.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v732/floopyboo/sims/Aug08/Oasis.jpg)



Puss, the geriatric kitty that helped raise the kids now lives in the warm sunny spot under the window outside Gran's sewing room, where she makes toys & bobble-hats for the grandkids.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v732/floopyboo/sims/Aug08/snapshot_00000003_35a0a22a.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v732/floopyboo/sims/Aug08/snapshot_00000003_f5a0a212.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v732/floopyboo/sims/Aug08/snapshot_00000003_95a0a236.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v732/floopyboo/sims/Aug08/snapshot_00000003_15a0a1f8.jpg)



Much of the orignal house retains the same charm it had when Gran decorated it as a newlywed, much to Pa's delight. There's nothing like the warming glow of the radiation king as you balance your tv dinner on your knees & watch Sale of the Century.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v732/floopyboo/sims/Aug08/snapshot_00000003_15a0a09a.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v732/floopyboo/sims/Aug08/snapshot_00000003_35a0a0b1.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v732/floopyboo/sims/Aug08/snapshot_00000003_55a0a123.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v732/floopyboo/sims/Aug08/snapshot_00000003_15a0a340.jpg)



Inclusions: 2 Bed, 1 Bath. The One Desk downstairs in spacious study. Fully lockable kitchen & stairwells. Viewing deck spacious with points of interest, access to bathroom & tv. Well-appointed kitchen has feeding dish with fully-washable rubberised mat to enable quick cleanup. Bird cage in stairwell foyer. Two 1x1 storage closets.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v732/floopyboo/sims/Aug08/snapshot_00000003_d5a0a1ba.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v732/floopyboo/sims/Aug08/snapshot_00000003_f5a0a0e6.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v732/floopyboo/sims/Aug08/snapshot_00000003_35a0a0dd.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v732/floopyboo/sims/Aug08/snapshot_00000003_15a0a366.jpg)



(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v732/floopyboo/sims/Aug08/roof.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v732/floopyboo/sims/Aug08/TopFloor.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v732/floopyboo/sims/Aug08/EntryLevel.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v732/floopyboo/sims/Aug08/Basement.jpg)



Exclusions: The kitchen sink. Yard only partially fenced. Pet toys/litter tray not included. Nursery not included. Room for driveway if you're clever about it, not included because original game driveway pieces did not match the theme.


Not playtested at time of upload.


Made with love & the following EPs & SPs: TS2 Holiday Edition, Uni, NL, OFB, FFS, GLS, Pets, Seasons, BV, FT.

The kitchen is just so granny it's awesome!  :D I also like the sewing room. I suspect most people will change the entranceway to one side or another, looks good the way you've done it.

@Witch: You're so right about the stairs. I didn't see it before, but they're crying out to be changed. I'd stick with the nursery colours though - toddlers like bright colours.  The rising young yuppy would probably want to do a nursery in aluminium siding, but I couldn't do that to a child.

@Floopyboo.  I do love your decor - it is so old lady.  I find it hard to inject the owner's character into a house, but you've managed that really well. I like the idea of grandad and his mates sipping cocktails while playing with his railway. Mr Jim is jealous.

Floopy, that's gorgeous! ;D

Witch, you are so right! I'd already planned to move the entrance :D

The design is fail. Never, EVER, diagonalize a multi-tile object. If you diagonalize multi-tile couches, they become TOTALLY FUBAR. DON'T DO IT.

Aw, you noticed me! Have a bobble hat!

I don't really think that the diagonality of couches really matters so much when the original lot is terrain-wrecking FAIL! If it matter so much, change them to suit your own needs when you download it. I promise not to get in a snit about it.

@ witch and Cimaronna: thanks for your feedback! Yes, I was also thinking that most of my houses need some more color. I will try to work on that and re-upload. Will it help if I say that I made a few rug recolors, so that not all floors are the same? ;) Here they are:
http://forums.boolprop.com/viewtopic.php?f=116&t=34369 (http://forums.boolprop.com/viewtopic.php?f=116&t=34369)

@ Liz: I have to say - the idea about using foundation in the bathroom is great, but unfortunately it isn't mine... I saw it in a few houses that I downloaded  :)

Floopy, that's gorgeous! I can imagine my maternal grandma there right now!  ;)

I appreciate all the feedback. To be honest, I'm biting down hard on the urge to redownload that merged hood just so I can pop Coral & Herb Oldie in there & watch them go at it. I kind of had them in mind when I made it.

My first house of the month!

From the Road to Nowhere to the Road to Somewhere.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/yecatsnz/front.jpg)

3 bedrooms, 2 crib-pods and 3 bathrooms later, I have brought the little house of shame into the 21st century!
The house is 3 stories, plus a basement.  Driveway *might* not work due to lot borkage. 
Telescope on the roof to help cater to every strangeville residents inner need to stargaze.  Fencing on all decking to ensure that no-one takes a tumble while looking to the heavens.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/yecatsnz/back.jpg)

The back of the house sports a lovely deck, pool to the side and greenhouse, as well as a fishable pond to catch dinner for the family.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/yecatsnz/floor3.jpg)

From the top down we have the master bedroom, master bathroom and crib-pods.  Fridge on site for midnight feedings and changetable in easy reach for those nasty messes.

 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/yecatsnz/floor2.jpg)

Two childrens bedrooms either hold 4 children (8 if you use the grand trinion bunks) or remove a bed to create 2 roomy single bedrooms.  (Note: These rooms are not big enough for a double bed.)
Bathroom has two toilet stalls, one sink and one bath.  If you have 4 kids, you'll need both toilets.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/yecatsnz/floor1.jpg)

The main floor.  Kitchen is decorated in natural tones, which change into a bright, fast-food-style dining area.  Gate to kitchen is lockable.  The One Desk is situated in the small, but cosy, study.  No longer will you have guests clambouring up the stairs to use a bathroom, as there is one right beside the entrance.  Stairs are lockable.
Living room contains modern comforts; a large screen tv, a stereo, and two elegant sofas.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/yecatsnz/base.jpg)

Basement is designed for the inner mad scientist.  Ample room to store all your reward objects, relax with a good book, practise your trick shots or belt out a tune.  Drain in the floor for those... messy experiments.

For a full tour, slideshow is linked below.

(http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v457/yecatsnz/th_front.jpg) (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v457/yecatsnz/?action=view&current=eda9e9b4.pbw)

Download from here: Road to Somewhere.rar (http://www.4shared.com/file/57480855/7452ea3a/Road_to_Somewhere.html)
All EP's, No SP's.  Not a starter house by any means.

Edited to include download ::)

WARNING! This lot has uneven edges. Don't put it anywhere you really care about or at 'sea' level. It will bork your terrain and cause it to flood. Okay, now that is out of the way:

My topsy-turvy version of 73 Road to Nowhere requires all EPs and SPs and probably the Ikea lights extracted by Havelock. It is fully furnished and costs about §177k. Features 2 double bedrooms and a nursery that can be converted to a bedroom, 5 bathrooms, a large skilling/crafting basement, which can be converted to bedrooms and bathrooms if needed, kitchen with separate dining room, living room/study, covered hot-tub area, pond and pool. No driveway or garage, or street parking as I couldn't turn the driveway. If you really want one installed then you can delete the pond and place one there. Not quite awesomespec as the nursery is not on the same floor as the kitchen, but it is on the first floor! I designed this house so the main entrance is on the second floor, where the main living area is! There are lockable stairs to stop visitors heading for the pond, pool or hot-tub and also on the second floor there is a viewing deck where I have placed a telescope. Grilling eqiupment and seating can be placed there too. Bedrooms and 3 bathrooms are locked away on the first floor, and if you decide to give visitors access to the hot tub, pool etc and visitor bathroom on the first floor, but not the rest of the house then stairs are lockable at the bottom too. Trouble is, they will have access to the basement too, but all equipment down there are in lockable rooms. I raised the basement to the correct level and enlarged it. I changed the original entrance to a feature window-and forgot to take a snapshot of it. Duh. Anti-wolf fence, kickable gnome and the one desk are all in place. Anyway, some pics:

Front

(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll294/Emma_M_71/73_Road_To_Nowhere/73_RTN_Front.jpg)

Stairs to main entrance
(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll294/Emma_M_71/73_Road_To_Nowhere/73_RTN_Stairs_To_Entry.jpg)

Entrance

(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll294/Emma_M_71/73_Road_To_Nowhere/73_RTN_Entranceon2ndfloor.jpg)

Pond and Hot-tub area

(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll294/Emma_M_71/73_Road_To_Nowhere/73_RTN_Pond_N_Hottub.jpg)

Viewing deck

(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll294/Emma_M_71/73_Road_To_Nowhere/73_RTN_Deck.jpg)

Back of lot

(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll294/Emma_M_71/73_Road_To_Nowhere/73_RTN_Back.jpg)

First floor

(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll294/Emma_M_71/73_Road_To_Nowhere/73_RTN_First.jpg)

Second floor

(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll294/Emma_M_71/73_Road_To_Nowhere/73_RTN_Second.jpg)

Third floor

(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll294/Emma_M_71/73_Road_To_Nowhere/73_RTN_Basement.jpg)

I didn't take any interior pictures. Laziness. Sorry. Oh, and I went mad and put plants everywhere! You will probably need to install Perfect Plants by TwoJeffs. I have restricted access around the back and side of the lot to the sims as the terrain is really uneven, so they will find it hard to trim shrubs.

Download Lot. (http://www.4shared.com/file/57490703/d67ad5c7/73_Road_to_Nowhere_Emma.html)

Emma, that's a lovely lot. Very crisp & visually cooling, a great piece of archecture for the desert. It's a little plant-heavy for my tastes, though. :D

You've made that poky little house look lush and spacious. It would fit perfectly into my neighbourhood - damn the edges on this lot.

FWIW, I've just playtested my house, to find it's completely unplayable. The first set of visitors resulted in a visitor/sim/visitor sandwich that could neither get in nor out.  It's not going to be easy getting the corpses out of that stairwell.

Oooh, good point. I should playtest my lot & see if it actually works.

Unlike last month, when I held off looking at other's entries until I finished mine, I'm scoping for ideas on what to do with that firggin' useless narrow entry.

I had fiddled with a plant related thing & now everyone will think I stole it from Emma! I didn't, although I might not admit it if I did.

Looks very tropical, though, and you can see the original lines of the house, which I think is a good thing when doing an EAxis redo.

I went a bit nuts...

(http://img381.imageshack.us/img381/5863/augustcottagebk4.jpg)

I must apologise for the size of the pictures, but I couldn't be arsed to load up my game again just to take new pics.

(http://img381.imageshack.us/img381/7555/augustcottagefrontun5.jpg)
(http://img381.imageshack.us/img381/5038/augustcottagebackcn7.jpg)
(http://img381.imageshack.us/img381/8245/augustcottagegardenur1.jpg)

Lot is 95% unfurnished, I only did the bathroom. As for playability, I only tested the staircases, and the upstairs rooms to see if the roof wasn't too low. When playing, the plants along the walls will probably obstruct the view a tad too much, so you might want to nuke 'em. Edges are completely flat.

(http://img381.imageshack.us/img381/8724/augustcottagebasementme7.th.jpg) (http://img381.imageshack.us/my.php?image=augustcottagebasementme7.jpg)(http://img381.imageshack.us/img381/7513/augustcottagegroundfloowu0.th.jpg) (http://img381.imageshack.us/my.php?image=augustcottagegroundfloowu0.jpg)(http://img381.imageshack.us/img381/1047/augustcottagefirstfloorbr1.th.jpg) (http://img381.imageshack.us/my.php?image=augustcottagefirstfloorbr1.jpg)

Download here (http://www.4shared.com/file/57501257/d45bf1c1/August_Cottage.html)

Edit: Forgot to add, I have all EPs up to Seasons, Glamour, FFS, H&M and IKEA.

Oh absolutely. That thing is such a bitch. I'm toying with ideas of what to do with it. I thought about making it a corridor, but then considered turning it into a basement stairwell, but everyone will think I stole kalinagn's idea (which I will do partially).

Steal away! I don't care :D I'm happy if people copy stuff I have done, this contest is all about sharing ideas.

I forgot to say, my lot has not been playtested as yet. The only problems that there might be are routing ones, but I hope I've fixed it by not allowing access to uneven terrain.

Eleonora, your house is gorgeous! I love the bay window on the second floor.

That feature caught my attention too.  Extremely nice.  "Stacey" is also quite good at this building thing, IMO.  I love the basement rec room on that house.

Here is my addition to this month's house of fail remodel.

http://thesims2.ea.com/exchange/story_detail.php?asset_id=234188 <---Pictures
http://thesims2.ea.com/exchange/lot_detail.php?asset_id=729997 <---Download

I'm not quite sure why it came up as different things. Probably because I am so unawesome.

Everyone's houses look *way* more awesome than mine, but then again, this is my first time participating in this. =p

Either way, I have all EPs/SPs, except Pets and FFS. Well... I have them, I just didn't install them on my computer. Also, please forgive the crappy/pixelated/blurry screenshots ... my graphics card isn't all that shiny.

Thanks Jolrei, I try!

I have a book that I've spent hours and hours writing in - it's a 5mm quad book that I use to design sims houses.  Sounds Geeky, but it's what I do to pass the time.
The Other Half sits on the couch playing GTA, I sit at my computer designing, or in this case redesigning, houses.  It's a good way to pick up new techniques and colour schemes.

Until joining MATY I would never of thought to put babies in seperate rooms, or locking the kitchen/stairs, but having it in play makes a world of difference.

When I see lots from people like Witch and Emma, I know I have a long way to go in the decorating department!

PS: Seeing my name typed out is weird.  I'm not used to people inside Teh Interwebs calling me Stacey.  :D

So, my Road to Nowhere is now compact living for the small family, or for a DINK-couple planning on starting a family. It should be awesomespeced, except for the unlevel lot edges. Bummer. Price is §49 477 magic wanded.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v721/annann/Maxischallenge/house.jpg)

Ground floor layout:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v721/annann/Maxischallenge/groundfloor.jpg)

Upper floor layout:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v721/annann/Maxischallenge/upperfloor.jpg)

The Impossible Former Entrance (new entrance to the right):
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v721/annann/Maxischallenge/formerentrance.jpg)

Kitchen:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v721/annann/Maxischallenge/kitchen.jpg)

Dining area, indoors:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v721/annann/Maxischallenge/dining.jpg)

Living room with caffeination station and study area:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v721/annann/Maxischallenge/tvcaffeination.jpg)

The one desk, to the right is exit to outdoor eating area:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v721/annann/Maxischallenge/theonedesk.jpg)


Built with all EPs and SPs except the holiday SP.

Looks great, Annan, can we have a download link?

I knew I forgot something. :P Added to post.

Annan, very nice! I love how you've designed the roof.

Nice entries everyone.

Heh Annan, I also made a yellowish house with the old entrance glassed in, but with plants :)

It has 2 bedrooms + nursery and 3 bathrooms and costs §107,272.
All EP's, no stuff packs.
EDIT: Forgot to mention that the edges have been flattened with the lot adjuster.

Download (http://www.box.net/shared/bod1hl3400)

(http://i354.photobucket.com/albums/r427/Goggalor_Pics/EAxisHoFAug/fa478858.jpg)

(http://i354.photobucket.com/albums/r427/Goggalor_Pics/EAxisHoFAug/5a3a9e9d.jpg)
Front

(http://i354.photobucket.com/albums/r427/Goggalor_Pics/EAxisHoFAug/03d60d02.jpg)
Lounge

(http://i354.photobucket.com/albums/r427/Goggalor_Pics/EAxisHoFAug/5fc744a3.jpg)
Old Entrance

(http://i354.photobucket.com/albums/r427/Goggalor_Pics/EAxisHoFAug/d375d2ed.jpg)
Kitchen

(http://i354.photobucket.com/albums/r427/Goggalor_Pics/EAxisHoFAug/09e22864.jpg)
Gamesroom

Floorplans:
(http://i354.photobucket.com/albums/r427/Goggalor_Pics/EAxisHoFAug/141d7c73.jpg)

(http://i354.photobucket.com/albums/r427/Goggalor_Pics/EAxisHoFAug/b58cd795.jpg)

(http://i354.photobucket.com/albums/r427/Goggalor_Pics/EAxisHoFAug/6d6f9731.jpg)

More pics (http://s354.photobucket.com/albums/r427/Goggalor_Pics/EAxisHoFAug/?albumview=grid)

Annann, I love the retro feel of this place. Nice colours & very open-plan considering the original.

Ugh. I'm currently cleaning my parents' computers (I'm thinking about enforcing an only-Firefox rule or taking their Internet away...some bad ass annoying adware and at least two other malwares that Panda is currently searching out...this happens every damned time I visit). Anyway, two things:

I put couches on diagonals all the time.  :P Pescado. All that happens is that they can walk through the couch. Sometimes it is worth the look.

I'm keeping that stupid gate and fence.

Funniest thing ever is when they ACR woohoo on diagonal couches :D

This is my third attempt at redesigning a monthly EAxis House of Fail. The previous two were deleted during fits of petulance over EA's inability to make a complete matching set of anything, and this one nearly went the same way. On Friday night my sister asked me to design a house for when she gets a new computer that can run EP's beyond Pets, preferably one that has space for hobby and or crafty stuff. With that goal in mind, Erin Dreams (2.0) was finished.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v150/Spikus/Sims%20Houses/snapshot_0000001e_75a20219.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v150/Spikus/Sims%20Houses/snapshot_0000001e_d5a1fc83.jpg)

Notes: This lot does have even edges.  I have everything and anything that EA has put out under Sims 2.  I always try to keep AwesomeSpecs in mind when I build, but I deviate.  I'm a boring interior designer who has a tendency to get repetitive (Exhibit A: The excess of pine in this house, Exhibit B: The identically designed bathrooms) and I apologize.  I did test with a family of 6- two adults, one teen, two kids and a toddler, and found it to be playable.  If the front gate and narrow-entrance door are locked to non-family, there are few routing issues.  I expect pile-ups when the kids get home from school, but I forgot to play that long.  Oops.

Second Floor: Master bedroom with attached bath, teen room with attached bath, two kids' rooms, freestanding bath, small craft room (you can have two people in there at the same time) and large deck.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v150/Spikus/Sims%20Houses/snapshot_0000001e_b5a1fd4f.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v150/Spikus/Sims%20Houses/snapshot_0000001e_f5a2001e.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v150/Spikus/Sims%20Houses/snapshot_0000001e_15a1ffb0.jpg)

First Floor: Sitting/reading area, two empty endtables for mail and/or thinking caps, the One Desk, full bath, small nursery, kitchen, separate dining area (only accessible through kitchen) and separate stairs room. 
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v150/Spikus/Sims%20Houses/snapshot_0000001e_d5a1fd79.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v150/Spikus/Sims%20Houses/snapshot_0000001e_f5a1fed4.jpg)

Basement: Windows! Reading area, movie corner, poker room, hobby space with barre, radio and electric train.  Full bathroom with shower. Note: The awning on the deck obscures the back left corner if you play with walls up.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v150/Spikus/Sims%20Houses/snapshot_0000001e_f5a1fdf5.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v150/Spikus/Sims%20Houses/snapshot_0000001e_75a1ff34.jpg)

Yard: Driveway, garden area, open activity area, fenced in pool and seating area.  Some far-flung shrubberies, but nothing too excessive.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v150/Spikus/Sims%20Houses/snapshot_0000001e_15a200f6.jpg)

 

Furnished:  $84,959 (wanded down from about $150,000) DOWNLOAD (http://www.box.net/shared/jc6t2sn8ko)
Unfurnished: $34,865 DOWNLOAD (http://www.box.net/shared/x4clte8wgc)

Simple, elegant & warm.

Don't apologise for symmetry. Repeating a theme can be a good thing, and it's a very good idea if you want to keep your decorating simple.

One note - you may want to pull the model railroad away from the window so sims can access that side to add stuff on to it.

Goggalor, I love the arch-things on the side! I might steal that idea for a few of my own houses :D

Can I just ask how you get connecting stairs to go into a 3 tile space? I've yet to figure it out.

Batelle, I like that your house has a very "real home" feeling to it. Warm, like floopyboo said.


It is possible with moveobjects on, but I don't know of any way to have a wall or fence at the end. I think I saw some EAxis house from the base game or some early EP that had it though.
Maybe it was a house in Pleasantville? I haven't had them in my game for ages so I can't remember though, sorry.

Thanks for the compliments, guys.  The interior is based on my own house- pine walls in every room and a few brick accents.


I knew that and I still kept pushing in back against the wall "for flow".  :D  I hate when I miss stuff like that.

All the houses look great so far.  I'm partial to those who kept the lot "in the desert".  I love the modern design elements and use of stucco in Yecats, Emma, Goggalor and Annan's houses.  I'm definitely going to use Eleonora's house for one of my custom universities- besides being gorgeous, it matches the other buildings perfectly and it's a good size for a larger generation of Young Adults. 

You should also be aware that the train set is highly flammable and prone to spontaneous combustion if used, so the room should contain fire protection.

The European Townhouse has it. I've always wondered how they managed to do it though. Oh well.

I guess that's more realistic than spontaneous combustion due to hot tubbing, but it's still ridiculous. 

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/ScreenShot1675.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/ScreenShot1680.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/ScreenShot1674.jpg)

(click to see larger)
basement:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/th_ScreenShot1679.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/ScreenShot1679.jpg)
main floor:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/th_ScreenShot1678.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/ScreenShot1678.jpg)
upstairs:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/th_ScreenShot1677.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/ScreenShot1677.jpg)
living room:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/th_ScreenShot1682.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/ScreenShot1682.jpg)
master bedroom (in basement):
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/th_ScreenShot1688.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/ScreenShot1688.jpg)
upstairs bedroom 1:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/th_ScreenShot1686.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/ScreenShot1686.jpg)
upstairs bedroom 2 facing toward balcony door:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/th_ScreenShot1685.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/ScreenShot1685.jpg)
kitchen:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/th_ScreenShot1683.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/ScreenShot1683.jpg)
dining room facing enclosed stairway:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/th_ScreenShot1684.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/ScreenShot1684.jpg)
dining room facing enclosed porch:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/th_ScreenShot1690.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v135/2flower/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/ScreenShot1690.jpg)

I fixed the non-level lot by building the house just like the original on a new, flat lot.  I decided to keep it in the desert, and although it isn't my favorite house, I thought it turned out well considering what it once was.  I tried to use awesomespecs, but I forgot to add the one desk.  I'm sure there is room to add one on the main floor somewhere. 

Lot details:

no custom content
§107K
3x2 lot
3-5 bedrooms
2.5 bathrooms
twin nurseries
enclosed porch
balcony
greenhouse
single garage
full "daylight" basement

I have all EPs through FreeTime, and I also have Family Fun and Celebration.   The Stuff Packs may not be needed (although I don't know) since I didn't use any objects from them. 

Download Here (1.3 MB) (http://www.box.net/shared/wfq3a2wgsg)

I like what you did with the greenhouse. Different method for hooking it up to the house with a foundation involved.

Well, the sims themselves don't combust in the case, just the trains. Maybe those tanker cars haul real gasoline.

twooflower: I like the outdoor western feel of your house.
Annan I just love your house in general. It looks modern, but simple and not too cluttered.

Anyway, this month, I decided to keep it simple and cheap.

When I initially saw this house, I got serial killer vibes. So, I modified the house so that an evil genius/serial killer can maintain his pastime while giving the illusion of Joe Normal.

(http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/NowhereFront.jpg)

(http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/Nowhere2ndfloor.jpg)

(http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/Nowhere1stFloor.jpg)

(http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/NowhereBasement.jpg)

(http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/NowhereStudyTorture1.jpg)

(http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/NowhereCell.jpg)

(http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/NowhereDiningLiving2.jpg)

(http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/NowhereDiningLiving1.jpg)


For more pictures, check out the slideshow:
(http://s31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/th_NowhereFront.jpg) (http://s31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/?action=view&current=5ad4dd08.pbw)

Unfortunately, this house was built before the flat-edged version was introduced therefore, be careful when placing in the neighborhood. The house costs a grand total of $70 276. I have all EPs up to Vacation and no SPs.

This house boasts 3.5 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, dining/living, kitchen and entrance. Oh, yeah, it does not include the aspiration and career rewards that were pictured in the basement. Oh yeah, it doesn't include the rat nor the secret passage bookcase since I didn't make it.

I decided to try this one because I've always hated that house, and I figured anything I did to it would have to be an improvement. 
This is nothing so cool as others have posted, and I didn't expand too much on the original size.  I'm no ball of fire on interior decor, but I did add a few things, and stuffed the old stupid entry way with plants and crap. This house is intended for a small family with no babies or toddlers.

Built with Uni, NL, GLS, OFB, SSNS. No custom content. I used the flat lot posted up-thread. $102,589.

http://www.box.net/shared/5ikhnh12cs (http://www.box.net/shared/5ikhnh12cs)

Features:
Southwestern-n-stucco theme.
Two bedrooms, three sinkless baths.
Visitor-access controllable kitchen, sleeping area and balcony. Balcony suitable for alien-ogling and peeping-tommery.
Animal defense barrier (for you Pets people) may also serve as visitor control barricade.
Basement rec room is visitor accessable.
The One Desk! (However, house is not recommended for families with more than two school-age spawn.)
Fish pond and starter garden (lack of greenhouse down to the fact that I am on dial up and the file was going to be big enough without it. DIY.)
Note lack of sinks! Sinks are irrelevant to the simish way of life! Shit-n-shower! You need no sink! (Counters available in upstairs toidies for your sink-adding convenience.)
Note lack of dish-washer/trash compactor. Don't waste valuable waste! Compost!

Exterior. Fence across old entry way leaves it 'outdoors', allowing more light into entry/living area.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v642/syzygy0112/exterior_1.jpg)

First floor.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v642/syzygy0112/first_floor.jpg)
Second floor.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v642/syzygy0112/second_floor.jpg)
Basement rec room.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v642/syzygy0112/basement.jpg)

A couple shots of my lame interior decorating.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v642/syzygy0112/first_floor_detail.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v642/syzygy0112/chess_easel_detail.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v642/syzygy0112/dining_detail.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v642/syzygy0112/kitchen_detail.jpg)

Sorry there are no detail shots of second floor rooms; getting half-way decent screen shots up there defeated me.

New .zip file added in place of first fubared .zip.

I seem to be having a problem downloading your lot, Count Four. The zip file doesn't seem to want to extract correctly. Perhaps reupload it?

Either way, it looks nice. There is a lot of improvement from the original.

*sigh*

I seem to be having a problem with it, too, now that I test it.  I'll post a new .zip and edit the post when I've changed it. Thanks for letting me know.

New .zip file added to previous post.

Well, my hat's off to everyone who posted an entry, 'cause this lot is kicking my ass. I have six or seven versions so far, and I can't seem to finish any of them to
the point that I'm happy with the results. Damn that useless entryway!!

I'm a bit surprised that I'm the first to do this, but as there is a basement I've decided to make a home for the vamps in your neighbourhood. Now I had all sorts of nightmare problems with the original lot basement even after levelling the edges with the lot expander so I opted to create the original lot layout from scratch then do the conversion. Sorry if this is cheating but despite my best efforts I couldn't place basement walls in the original. On the plus side it does mean the lot has flat edges so won't break your neighbourhood terrain.

I expanded the original basement so there is space for a normal bedroom, vampire bedroom, gym and bathroom. A new entrance was added upstairs and the old one converted to an 'architectural feature' complete with windows, lighting and a statue. The kitchen has been added to the back of the house and the original ground floor has a study area (one desk), chess area, pool table and separate lounge along with a second bathroom. The carport was positioned adjacent to the front door to minimise potential vamp exposure to sunlight. The grounds have been landscaped and a pool with slide added for moonlight dips. There is very limited pet access at the front of the house but no exposed terrain for them to dig up. Made with all EPs + GLS + FFS + H&M packs. Total cost is ~125k.

Basement:
(http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j136/spacedcat/Lot%20Building/73RoadToNowhere/Basement.jpg)

Ground floor:
(http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j136/spacedcat/Lot%20Building/73RoadToNowhere/GroundFloor.jpg)

Entrance:
(http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j136/spacedcat/Lot%20Building/73RoadToNowhere/Entrance.jpg)

Pool:
(http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j136/spacedcat/Lot%20Building/73RoadToNowhere/Pool.jpg)


Download lot from here. (http://rapidshare.com/files/135010387/73_Road_to_WhereClean.Sims2Pack.html)

I was fiddling with a crypt idea, but yours is extra kewl, so I'll leave off that until later, and go with my Bali getaway. I kept most of the original floorplan, added space for
a bed/bath suite in back, and made the original entry into an enclosed aquarium in one area and an orchid hothouse in the other.


Front:
(http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b8d624b3127ccec49e199344a200000040O00AbN2jJs0at2IPbz4G/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D480/ry%3D320/)

View into kitchen:
(http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b8d624b3127ccec49e646b04fc00000040O00AbN2jJs0at2IPbz4G/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D480/ry%3D320/)

View into livingroom:
(http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b8d624b3127ccec49e33d5c5c100000040O00AbN2jJs0at2IPbz4G/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D480/ry%3D320/)

Floor plan upper:
(http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b8d624b3127ccec49e6a29858900000040O00AbN2jJs0at2IPbz4G/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D480/ry%3D320/)

This was a little bit of skirting 'round the rules, but I couldn't picture a tropical vacation getaway with a full basement, so I enlarged the actual basement space,
but very little of it is actually walled.

Floor plan basement:
(http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b8d624b3127ccec49f9559646200000040O00AbN2jJs0at2IPbz4G/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D480/ry%3D320/)

Basement changing area/bath/shower/party area:
(http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b8d624b3127ccec49fa864a5e900000040O00AbN2jJs0at2IPbz4G/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D480/ry%3D320/)


*Important note* Either I didn't use it properly, or Inge's 'things stay after move' shrub let me down, so the download version is unfurnished. Download it here:http://www.4shared.com/account/dir/6379203/acfc7b59/sharing.html?rnd=74 (http://www.4shared.com/account/dir/6379203/acfc7b59/sharing.html?rnd=74)

All EP's, SP's, Converted Crap, and Pillaged Store Crap.

Poor Twooflower: you missed the flat version that I uploaded on the first page! :(


All right, I am not terribly pleased with my entry, but it's done, so I might as well share it. I might do another version later in the month, if I can stand the thought of working with this monstrosity again.

Roux to Nowhere

Price: 109,668 (will drop to 63,756 with use of Magic Wand)
Bedrooms: 1
Baths: 2
EPs/SPs: All
Edges of lot flattened using LotAdjuster
The packaged lot is not clean, so use Clean Installer to uncheck the two hacks and K&B pre-order, if you already have it.

My version would be best suited for a single sim, a childless couple, or an elderly couple. A nursery and extra beds/baths could be added though, by sacrificing the porch/lawn. Adding a third level would probably require some reworking of the main floor. The exterior style is a sort of contemporary pueblo; interior style is modern.

(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere/ScreenShot015.jpg)


In terms of construction, I didn't expand the interior space very much beyond attaching a garage and expanding the basement. I lowered the foundation to standard height.

(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere/ScreenShot008.jpg)
(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere/ScreenShot007.jpg)
(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere/ScreenShot006.jpg)


My way of dealing with the original entry way was to move the front door to the left side, extend the foundation/basement and use the narrow hall for lockable stairs leading down to the basement. Then I put a fireplace where the front door used to be and balanced it out for the feature "waterfire" wall. The living area is open plan, with The One Desk located near the front door. Kitchen is lockable. Instead of a dining room there is a bar area. I blatantly stole an idea from Annan and Jim and put a small skylight over the bar area, purely for appearance since it didn't change the lighting...

(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere/ScreenShot031.jpg) (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere/ScreenShot020.jpg) (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere/ScreenShot010.jpg) (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere/ScreenShot022.jpg) (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere/ScreenShot021.jpg)


The basement contains the bedroom, a second bathroom, and a skilling area. Should be vampire-friendly, especially since it connects directly to the garage.

(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere/ScreenShot025.jpg) (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere/ScreenShot023.jpg) (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere/ScreenShot024.jpg)


Garage and rear porch have plenty of room for Awesomeware or peripheral skilling items. Porch contains grill and bar seating (so sims do not take their food outside to eat, though it also functions as overflow meal seating). Also outdoors is a fenced and gated area for the trashcan and kickables. Some light landscaping provided: all flowers and bushes should be able to be cared for without routing issues. Added an axe-throwing station, just for the heck of it.

(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere/ScreenShot030.jpg) (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere/ScreenShot027.jpg) (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere/ScreenShot026.jpg) (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere/ScreenShot028.jpg) (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere/ScreenShot029.jpg)


Lightly playtested. Sims can go up and down the staircase between the garage and basement, though it looks like they walk through a wall at the top. BUY in the basement bathroom will work, thanks to being enclosed in 4 proper walls, but note that sims that get the "urge" while at ground level outdoors seem to get routed to the basement instead of the main floor bath. Just be aware of that, and make sure you configure it so visitors are rejected. Also, the best viewing angle seems to be from the back right corner:

(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere/ScreenShot009.jpg)


I've also done an unfurnished version this time around. It goes for 48,097 (35,054 with use of Magic Wand). In that version there is no landscaping and the driveway extension was removed. No furnishings except for the main floor bath and the kitchen with a cheaper fridge and less counter space. Lighting provided. Basement is open plan, and still connected to the garage. Wall textures were replaced with one of the two-tone Beachy Keen paints.

Download furnished version (http://www.4shared.com/file/57885285/8c7721e8/Roux_to_Nowhere-Furnished.html)
Download unfurnished version (http://www.4shared.com/file/57885320/73057da/Roux_to_Nowhere-Unfurnished.html)

Oh my god, I am going to download ALL of these.

msalwaysright, in the pics of your central open floor plan room (where your sim lady is playing chess)--I think that's the only use of that particular stone floor I've ever seen that makes that tile look good.   

Thanks, I think that's the only time I've ever really used it, too. EAxis only makes you use things you never normally would.

Wow. 

Seeing what all of you have done with that craptastic house, I might have to break down and download some of these (normally I don't download lots).

I'd like to see what all of you do with the pain in the ass Curious house (those platforms and that terrain, why?).

Oh that would be a good one. The special unique rule could be that you can't get rid of the platforms...

Heh, Faizah and I were talking about that today.  I was editing the Curious lot, she was watching me delete all those platforms, and she said to me "that'd make a good House of Fail for MATY, but with a rule that you couldn't delete the platforms."

What I like about the House of Fail is that I get to download plenty of playable houses each month.  Personally, with my low-end system, I don't view a 6 story house as playable.

If the Curious lot was the House of Fail with the rule of keeping those platforms, I don't think they'd be downloaded as much as some of the other houses we've had.

I nearly posted the Curious house instead-I'm glad I didn't :D That lot needs serious flattening too.

Is that another Strangetown lot?  I don't seem to remember a house like that, but I deleted the Strangetown hood from my game (too wierd and arid - I like my lawns green).

I do enjoy seeing the variation in people's building styles.  The modern houses appeal to me most, but I always seem to end up with a standard suburban box myself.  Would anybody fancy doing a community lot competition sometime?  I could certainly do with more interesting community lots to spice up my neighbourhood, and I'm lazy enough to hope to swipe some from others.

I'm tempted to come up with my own version of this house after I saw all these gorgeous houses! Great job, everyone!

Will try my hand later tonight.

Currently playtesting my rough draft.

I second this request. I also need more community lots.

Another suggestion for a future challenge would be one of those cramped Veronaville houses or that yellow Victorian house in the sim bin.

Well, I don't think there's a rule that the House of Fail has to be kept a house.

Yeah, the Curious house is a Strangetown offering.  I looked for an image but found nothing good.  It has a lumpy lot, maze like interior and a series of stairs with observation decks (making it a 4 story house).  It's a nightmare to play, especially when the Curiouses (one of whom hatches an alien pod immediately upon playing) start crapping out their kids.

This took five tries to get something I liked, but I think I finally have something.

Inspired by Apartment Life, I turned the place into a two-family home, with a couple of shared areas. They are perfect for a single sim or DINKs.

(http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd226/IllusionsofGrandeur-TS2/AugustHouse_of_Fail/exterior-front.jpg)

Construction changes:
- added full second floor
- raised basement floor and expanded basement
- reconfigured interior walls
- extended back patio, added small front porches
- removed the 'entrance' platforms
- changed roofline, added balcony

I did not change the footprint of the house.

Other features:
- added swimming pool and small reflecting pool where the evil entrance was located
- completely fenced-in lot
- lockable kitchens and stairwells
- one true desk for each family

Floor Plans:

Basement - where the living rooms are
(http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd226/IllusionsofGrandeur-TS2/AugustHouse_of_Fail/basement.jpg)

Main Floor - kitchens, half-baths, dining rooms, shared sunroom
(http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd226/IllusionsofGrandeur-TS2/AugustHouse_of_Fail/mainfloor.jpg)

Top Floor - bedrooms, full baths, shared balcony
(http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd226/IllusionsofGrandeur-TS2/AugustHouse_of_Fail/secondfloor.jpg)


I decorated the left side in golds, the right side in blues.

Selected gold-side interiors:
(http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd226/IllusionsofGrandeur-TS2/AugustHouse_of_Fail/goldside-kitchen.jpg)

(http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd226/IllusionsofGrandeur-TS2/AugustHouse_of_Fail/goldside-bedroom.jpg)

(http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd226/IllusionsofGrandeur-TS2/AugustHouse_of_Fail/goldside-bath.jpg)

Selected blue-side interiors:
(http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd226/IllusionsofGrandeur-TS2/AugustHouse_of_Fail/blueside-living.jpg)

(http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd226/IllusionsofGrandeur-TS2/AugustHouse_of_Fail/blueside-bedroom.jpg)

(http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd226/IllusionsofGrandeur-TS2/AugustHouse_of_Fail/blueside-dining.jpg)



Selected exteriors:
(http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd226/IllusionsofGrandeur-TS2/AugustHouse_of_Fail/exterior-back.jpg)

(http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd226/IllusionsofGrandeur-TS2/AugustHouse_of_Fail/exterior-poolside.jpg)



I used the flattened lot. It costs somewhere in the neighborhood of §118K.

Download here. (http://www.illusionsofgrandeur-ts2.com/residentiallots/AugustHouseOfFail_Flat_Hecubus.rar)

Hecubus, that lot is gorgeous!

@Yecats. I like the way you've done the floor in the main bedroom, very nice. To me, the pool and the fishing pond look a little out of place in such arid conditions. Maybe just a swimming pool, but with some sort of canopy would look better. Anyway, that's just me. I love the pod colours and the purple on the bedroom floor as well.

@Emma. Your house has a lovely Spanish look, quite tropical and welcoming. Love the tree coming through the verandah. The second floor works much better as the main floor. Dunno about the basement though, I think it would feel too gloomy to play? (Five bathrooms Emma!)

@Eleanora. Very ye olde type cottage - then the surprise Japanesey theme inside.  :D

@starlady. Choice, very New Zealand sort of house. I love the nursery especially, but all round you've got lots of light. I like the conservatory look you've given that damned entrance.

@Annan. I always enjoy your sparse minimalist style, you make small spaces so efficient. You make really good tidy modern places, many of my young couples start off in your lots.

@Goggalor. Love the sierra type tone you've got going on outside, there's enough variety in the colour blocks so it looks more natural. When I first saw the glassed in plants in your foyer I thought, "oh bugger", because I'd had it in the back of my head to do something similar since I saw the sims 3 promo pictures of the glassed in plant. But hey, like Emma said, it's about the sharing of ideas anyway. (Yoink). Nice decorating too BTW.

@Batelle. Nice homey feel to your lot. The downstairs reminds me of some flats I've been in. I like the little courtyard area in the back.

@twooflower. Nicely done. Unfortunately, you've managed to lock in the two biggest rooms on the ground floor with almost no windows. I have a funny feeling that glasshouse walls won't let light into an inner room, but I could be wrong, I haven't tried it. I do like the nice comfy family living room.

@MaayaBee. LOL Good old EAxis. Seriously, nice take and a fun implementation. I've had that bookcase for years and not got around to using it, I must track it down again and put it in the castles for the witches.

@Count Four. I like the architectural style, especially the way you've broken up that tall front. I also don't think your decorating style is nearly as lame as you claim. That shot from the dining area through the glass to the plants and vase with the butterfly pictures off to the side; is just lovely.

@eevilcat. Heh. Looks kind of grim and inviting all at the same time, if you know what I mean!

@msalwaysright. Yum yum, pagoda style. You've done lovely glassed in thingies too. A lovely light, spring feeling house.

@Roux. Mmm. Do like that water-fire idea. (Yoink). I like the splashes of red you have in the main area, but personally I reckon the grey is just too dark.

@Hecubus. These apartment lots will be so hot shortly! Looks very fresh and tidy. You didn't do too badly on space, even though you split them.

@Everybody. Hope you don't mind me going through and commenting on everyone's contributions, I've been wanting to have a really good look for days and I've just been so busy. I've been purposely not reading comments in this thread till I had time to look properly.

I'm hoping to make an entry this coming weekend. I have lots of ideas now. He he. I will also welcome comments; fair's fair!

Yeah, the basement is pretty dark. Shame really.

I'm going to do another on the flattened lot too. I meant to grab it before, but, too lazy to close down game, download, install, load up game etc.... :P

I hear you sister!

Well, I AM from IKEAland, you know. It is my heritage. :P

What, where?
You mean the wood panelling? I figured that was the way olde worlde cottage had their walls covered. And since EAxis doesn't offer a whole lot of choice, and I did not want to use the same panelling in every room, I had to use some 'non-European panelling'.

That's why I did the 'basement apartment window' look. It's the only way to get any light down there. It's easy - you knock out a couple of foundation blocks, put walls on the inside, add a window (you must use move_objects on, then draw a perpendicular wall to make the window show up), and add a fence to the outside. It doesn't take away from your interior space and adds not only light but a little architectural interest.


Thanks. I have been quietly building some multi-family lots in anticipation.

I can't wait to see what you do, witch!

May just have to borrow Glad I thought of that, Witch!





-ahem- MATYan editing.

Hmm, interesting idea. I'll have to try this when I get home. I hate basements because they are usually so dark, and I don't like putting in a lot of lamps.

After removing paint and adding a full roof, this house looked like any old house up and down my road, so I made it into an Irish cottage. As well, I was reminded of the song "Road to Lisdoonvarna" rather than to nowhere.

(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l467/SalixxTree/Sims%20houses/Road-to-Lisdoonvarna.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l467/SalixxTree/Sims%20houses/Lisdoonvarna-birdseye-view.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l467/SalixxTree/Sims%20houses/Lisdoonvarna-sitting-room.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l467/SalixxTree/Sims%20houses/Lisdoonvarna-kitchen.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l467/SalixxTree/Sims%20houses/Lisdoonvarna-bedroom.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l467/SalixxTree/Sims%20houses/Lisdoonvarna-bathroom.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l467/SalixxTree/Sims%20houses/Lisdoonvarna-front.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l467/SalixxTree/Sims%20houses/Lisdoonvarna-back.jpg)

I put Road to Lisdoonvarna on my Simpage: http://thesims2.ea.com/exchange/lot_detail.php?asset_id=732654 (http://thesims2.ea.com/exchange/lot_detail.php?asset_id=732654)
It needs Seasons only, for the country look stuff.

*edit* also download here: http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?jnd3cnzdgdt (http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?jnd3cnzdgdt)

(Sorry about the bad quality pics, I have yet to figure out why better quality pics don't load up on this site for me. So I reduce the quality. If there's anyone who has any tips, I'm happy to hear them. cheers.)

Nabbed, Salix, BAA!

Do you use the in-game camera or an outside source, like Gadwin?

I use print and paste into photoshop.

@SalixTree: I find that my picture-heavy posts, such as this one, take a few minutes for the preview to fetch. Maybe it's the same for you?

Since I wasn't all that happy with my first entry, I decided I'd try another. I'm a lot happier with this one. :)

Roux's Nowhere v.2

Price: 72,721 (will drop to 44,497 with use of Magic Wand)
Bedrooms: 3
Baths: 3
EPs/SPs: All
Flat lot used, clean package.
Lot NOT playtested, but I realized just now that I forgot to add a phone and fire protection.  :-\

(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere_v2/ScreenShot032.jpg)


This house is more traditional and family-friendly than my first entry, with warmer decoration and furnishings. I converted the narrow passageway in the original version into a stairwell up to the primary, second floor entry. However, there is a family entrance on the first floor where the bedrooms, One Desk and study area reside. Lock the outside gate and door to Household Only, as well as the gated stairwell (second floor) to keep visitors from invading this space. The house is not AwesomeSpec due to multiple viewing decks and non-locked kitchen, but should still be functional. To lock the kitchen, either add fencing & gate or use full walls & door.

Layout pics: roof; second floor; first floor; basement
(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere_v2/ScreenShot033.jpg)
(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere_v2/ScreenShot034.jpg)
(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere_v2/ScreenShot035.jpg)
(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere_v2/ScreenShot036.jpg)


I attempted to fully furnish this while keeping the cost down without using Magic Wand, so you will find some less expensive furnishings and build elements, cheap lighting, very few items from the "decorative" category, and light landscaping. But I think the colors and style still work pretty well together, and without all the extra decor it'll be easier on redecoration. There are a few luxuries, though, such as the pool and hot tub.

Outdoor pics: second floor entry way; first floor family entrance; first floor hot tub; rear balcony and stairs leading down to basement pool and pond.
(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere_v2/ScreenShot037.jpg)  (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere_v2/ScreenShot038.jpg)
(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere_v2/ScreenShot039.jpg)  (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere_v2/ScreenShot040.jpg)


Second floor pics: TV area; chess table; kitchen & bar seating; dining area; bath
(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere_v2/ScreenShot041.jpg)  (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere_v2/ScreenShot045.jpg)  (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere_v2/ScreenShot042.jpg)  (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere_v2/ScreenShot043.jpg)  (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere_v2/ScreenShot044.jpg)

 
First floor pics: study area; family entrance/One Desk; master bedroom; master bath; second bath; child's room
(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere_v2/ScreenShot046.jpg)  (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere_v2/ScreenShot047.jpg)  (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere_v2/ScreenShot048.jpg)  (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere_v2/ScreenShot049.jpg)  (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere_v2/ScreenShot050.jpg)  (http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll303/Roux_28/Roux_Nowhere_v2/ScreenShot051.jpg)


Not featured in pictures: nursery, pond and pool.

Download Roux's Nowhere v.2 (http://www.4shared.com/file/58261125/135f0d82/Rouxs_Nowhere_v2.html)

Wow. These all look great...

Maybe I should finally get around to getting Ikeashit.

Someone floated the idea of converting it to a commercial lot so I thought I'd give it a try. I used the flat version of the lot for this so it should be fine to drop anywhere into your 'hood. I also figured out my previous problem with being unable to place walls in the basement - all I had to do was raise the ground 2 clicks first. Doh! This also means that the basement won't be underwater if you use the BV beach terrain (as I do for MATY Inverted).

It's designed to be a shop with the ground floor given over completely to sales. Downstairs are male and female toilets, a seating area, dartboard and photobooth. I've laid out the display shelves so that customers can move freely around the store. There's also plenty space to queue without blocking the aisles. Outside has been landscaped into a pretty garden area complete with seating and water features. I kept the roof flat as it suits the modern style of the building. Converted with all EPs/GLS/FFS/H&M installed.

I tested it in my MATY Inverted 'hood as I thought it was about time Rohan Uglybutt started pursuing his LTW of owning 5 top-level business. In case anyone hasn't seen them yet all the pretty vases came from the latest Parsimonious anniversary update - they're gorgeous!

Entrances - one each side of the building, both with double doors to avoid any pedestrian traffic jams.
(http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j136/spacedcat/Lot%20Building/73RoadToNowhereCommerical/Entrance.jpg)

Gardens on the left and right.
(http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j136/spacedcat/Lot%20Building/73RoadToNowhereCommerical/LeftGarden.jpg)

Ground floor display area.
(http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j136/spacedcat/Lot%20Building/73RoadToNowhereCommerical/GroundFloor.jpg)

Basement relaxation area and bathroom area.
(http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j136/spacedcat/Lot%20Building/73RoadToNowhereCommerical/Basement.jpg)

Rohan Uglybutt serves an impatient Yul Brynne. There's plenty space for shoppers to queue and the counter is big enough to add a second till.
(http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j136/spacedcat/Lot%20Building/73RoadToNowhereCommerical/RohinaServesBrynne.jpg)

Earl Witch decides that one giant vase is just not enough.
(http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j136/spacedcat/Lot%20Building/73RoadToNowhereCommerical/ICanHazVase.jpg)

Download the commercialised 73 Road to Nowhere from here. (http://rapidshare.com/files/135863469/73_Road_to_Nowhere_-_Commercial.Sims2Pack.html)

LOL SalixTree - You built my grandmother's house.  Is there an old retro toaster to put on the counter? ;D

@SalixTree. Wow, love the nooks and crannies. It's the sort of cottage I wouldn't mind living in when I get old.

@Roux. I like your 2nd version better too, I like lots of levels and different pathways.

@Eevilcat. I've always liked those windows but they only seem to fit on commercial lots. Very spacious light and airy. Choice.

I really enjoyed looking at the houses in this thread. Great job, everyone!!

This is my makeover of the ugly house using the flattened lot downloaded from here in this thread. I do apologize in advance for learning how to do the slideshow and link to that slideshow. Tips for doing that is welcome.

1 Wright Avenue - Furnished For Family

Cost: About $164,000
CC: No

2 Bedrooms
1 Nursery
1.5 Bathrooms (Full Bathroom on 2nd Floor and Guest Bathroom on 1st Floor)
Kitchen
Basement (Sports-themed with bar, pool table, treadmill, stereo and tv)
Dining-Office Area
Study-Toddler Area
Hot Tub-Deck (Back corner of the lot)
Garden (Complete with fruit trees, two 4-tiled rows of garden soil ready for planting)
Driveway
Fence-Gate (Keep unwanted varmints out)

*Not included - Cars, Cats/Dogs, Sims

There is a pet bowl in the kitchen but no pet toys or beds. Up to discretion of the player to have or not have.

Expansion Packs: ALL
Stuff Packs: ALL (Don't think Holiday is needed)
CEP: Yes


Slideshow (Click Image To Start):



Link To Download (4shared):

1 Wright Avenue.zip (http://www.4shared.com/file/58312261/19d1129d/1_Wright_Avenue.html)


Alternate Link To Download (MediaFire):

1 Wright Avenue (http://www.mediafire.com/?q4tdkmo3wsk)

Cool Chaavik! Maybe a touch heavy on the stone throughout - it's a very dominant tone, but over all I like it because of the sleek modern aspect of it. Very similar to Annanlike lots.

A tip for pictures is to set graphics settings on high for the picture taking if your machine can handle it; that gets rid of most of the jagged edges.

Minena's Road to Nowhere

I kept it simple and didn't use the basement at all.

Final cost $71, 292

EP's: All

SP's: Kitchen & Bath and Ikea

___________________________________________________________

(http://minena.prismbaby.com/roadtonowhere/ScreenShot250.png)

(http://minena.prismbaby.com/roadtonowhere/ScreenShot251.png)

(http://minena.prismbaby.com/roadtonowhere/ScreenShot252.png)

(http://minena.prismbaby.com/roadtonowhere/ScreenShot253.png)

(http://minena.prismbaby.com/roadtonowhere/ScreenShot254.png)

(http://minena.prismbaby.com/roadtonowhere/ScreenShot266.png)

(http://minena.prismbaby.com/roadtonowhere/ScreenShot256.png)

(http://minena.prismbaby.com/roadtonowhere/ScreenShot257.png)

(http://minena.prismbaby.com/roadtonowhere/ScreenShot258.png)

(http://minena.prismbaby.com/roadtonowhere/ScreenShot259.png)

(http://minena.prismbaby.com/roadtonowhere/ScreenShot260.png)

(http://minena.prismbaby.com/roadtonowhere/ScreenShot261.png)

(http://minena.prismbaby.com/roadtonowhere/ScreenShot262.png)

(http://minena.prismbaby.com/roadtonowhere/ScreenShot263.png)

(http://minena.prismbaby.com/roadtonowhere/ScreenShot264.png)

(http://minena.prismbaby.com/roadtonowhere/ScreenShot265.png)

http://minena.prismbaby.com/roadtonowhere/Minena's73RoadtoNowhere.rar (http://minena.prismbaby.com/roadtonowhere/Minena's73RoadtoNowhere.rar)

Minena, I think you took out some of the original external walls - the external walls around the original entrance formed a T-junction, and I can't see it on your version.  Apart from that, it looks very nice.  It has a nice atmosphere, although I'm not sure how playable it will be.

Does the bathroom work with a basin right next to it like you have in the upstairs bathroom?  I've never put a basin right next to the bath like that, because I thought sims wouldn't be able to use the bath.

I assume you've playtested it.  How do sims manage the steps by the front door?  It looks very cramped there.

And while I love those kitchen chairs from NL (they're my favourites when I furnish a lot), I have found they don't work too well when they're next to a wall.  Sims can get in the corner chair, but can't get out and end up being stuck between two chairs.

Ahhh, I see that now. I will correct it. When I blocked the end on the narrow entrance I saw it as an interior entry hall and thus removed the walls.


Anything can be placed on the end of the tub and Sims can use it fine, as long as the faucet end is left clear.


Possibly, but I liked the look more than having the stairs run straight out fron the porch.


I haven't play tested it, but I can hardly build without playability in my mind while I furnish. The only real issue will be the dresser in the upstairs bath, as when the house is entered after being placed, the door will not work as the dresser crosses the front of it. Easy enough fix, moveobjects on, move dresser out, reset door, move dresser back in, and both will work.

Quite possible there will be a chair issue, I haven't used those chairs in a while, but I've found with later expansions that there seems to be better "space" around objects for Sims to maneuver around. The only real issues I still know of are diagonal desks..well...thats all I can remember right now. There are a few things that really just won't work, but alot of the issues with getting around furniture are no more.

I will test it now after I fix the missing walls :)

Updated corrected layout of first floor. Replaced missing original walls.

Thank you again Kyna for pointing that out, I have a tendancy to loose track of the original walls on rebuilds.

Very nice Minena, it would work well as a starter. I agree with the comments that Kyna made though, maybe make the entrance sideway stairs a double pair? I mean, that's what I'd probably do, not that you should do it! I've used tubs next to the end of the bath before, although the chest could really go in that long narrow setup. I like your cool clear colours.

Thanks Witch. Turned out the chairs I used in the kitchen did cause the "stuck in the corner" syndrome so I turned the table sideways along the wall. I think those are the only chairs that cause that problem as I haven't run into it in a long time.

I am debating the double-wide front stairs. I'd have to extend the deck out one more square which shouldn't hurt the overall look. When the welcome wagon showed up, of course one of them stopped right at the top of them and left the last guy screaming that he couldn't get by.

This is a fun challenge and I look forward to more. Some amazing remodels have come out of them.

Hey Minena, (are you the Minena I know?)  ;)
Nice house! *downloads*
I was wondering, I've seen stairs like you made quite often. Is there a tutorial for these? Sometimes I wish I could do this with stairs. As I'm a skinner and  not normally a house builder, I don't know a lot of tricks such as this. My houses are usually made in a simple manner.

Eevilcat, cool community lot, that is! Love the yellows.

I'm going to later try to post a better quality pic to my earlieir post, see if I can get it to post. Maybe I'm not waiting long enough, as Rouk mentions.

http://www.sims2wiki.info/wiki.php?title=Tutorials:Stairs%26Lifts%26Elevators (http://www.sims2wiki.info/wiki.php?title=Tutorials:Stairs%26Lifts%26Elevators)

A 1000 and 1 ways of creating fancy staircases. Ofcourse, if you have OFB, you can just plop down a podium (from the foundations menu) and use that as an easy way to make corner stairs.

Oh and for anybody who uses podiums (podia?), please, please, please paint the sides. Everytime I read a story or see a house with an undyed podium it drives me nuts.

So how do you do that then? I tried applying a wallpaper and it wouldn't take it.

I assume you're talking about the stage? They are very persnickety. I found the best way to do it is to place a modular stair, and 'paint' starting on the stage piece behind the stair. Then remove the stair (or not, if it's part of your design). Do note that if you do that, the full circumference of the stage is painted with that one wallpaper - if you want it to have a different color (say, on an outside wall), temporarily remove the walls, put up modular stairs, paint just those parts of the stage, remove stairs, re-add walls, and breath a sigh of relief. (Sighing optional.)


I remain impressed with what everyone's doing - this lot is a true challenge!

/waves yes I am Salix! Nice house btw :)

When I place them next to walls, they won't take wallpaper. You have to delete the wall, paint the stage, then replace the wall. Annoying, but worth it for the finished product.

Regardless of which particular chairs you choose, that configuration will always cause traffic problems.

I've never had that problem, but putting any fencing/edging on the stage before wallpapering makes it nigh to impossible. Place stage, place upper stairs (if you are trying to match), wallpaper, place lower stairs and any fencing.

I've never had a problem with putting wallpaper on stages (unless I jinx it now), but in the rare case I use a stage I almost always put a half-wall on its edge. Perhaps that's the trick?

Ok, Ive stayed well away from this thread until now (didn't want to get too much inspiration from others work ;P), but here is my final product.
I have all stuffpacks and expansions. The house costs 132,253 simoleons (I tend to create bigger houses) and has four bedrooms and three baths. I expanded the cellar and raised the floor so it now feetures a hobby room, the fourth bedroom, a bath and a party room. Btw, I added the pool after I took the first batch of pics, thats why it only shows on the first picture.

Edit: Forgot to add that I used the flat lot version plus cleaned the lot with clean installer before upload. And now I remember I also forgot to mention that the phones are non-existant in this house.  ;)

Onto the pics!
(http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn65/AnnaTingeling/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/snapshot_0000000d_95ab7ff4.jpg)
The front of the house.

(http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn65/AnnaTingeling/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/snapshot_0000000d_b5ab7d02.jpg)
Main floor.

(http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn65/AnnaTingeling/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/snapshot_0000000d_d5ab7d07.jpg)
Second floor.

(http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn65/AnnaTingeling/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/snapshot_0000000d_15ab7d22.jpg)
The cellar.

House is available here (http://rapidshare.de/files/40206408/73RoadToNowherebyTingeling.rar.html).
More pictures here (http://s301.photobucket.com/albums/nn65/AnnaTingeling/73%20Road%20to%20Nowhere/).

Minena I was wondering what you used from Ikea Stuff,

if you don't have an EP/SP things just disappear right? or is there more bad to it than that?

Tingeling, I like your lot. The only routing problem I foresee is the sims trekking through the kitchen to get to upstairs. The outside is lovely and I like the way you have the sloping roofs at the side.


I believe that is true, that objects you don't have just disappear. I've not heard of anything bad happening.

Thanks, neither have I, but that doesn't always mean much when it comes to Sims.

I really like your bold decor, the way hot reds and oranges energise the whole house. Yours is the first basement I've really liked - the grownups must feel like YAs again in their own chill zone.

I've had three serious attempts at this house, all awful, so I now really, really hate this house.   This house is dead for me now, but it's fascinating to see how people produce completely different solutions to the same problem.

I know what you mean Jim. I've been playing with the cellar because I can't face the ground floor. I turn it round and round, I add and delete bits. I just dunno.

Wow, loving that red color! A house of passion? :-*

Yeah, that could be a problem. I hadn't thought of it when I was building. Thanks for the tip, I think I'll try making another one.  :)


Hehe, I thought this was gonna be a great house for a legacy family, seeing as both upstairs and cellar is expandable. And I get what you say about some houses not sparking any inspiration. That was what happened to me when I tried rebuilding the house from last month.

It can be whatever you want it to be. I just wanted a really red house for the modern part of my 'hood.   ;)

And I gotta say, I have to download some houses from this thread. I really like the solution of making the wierd entrance a display case. Great work!

But we're waiting! No pressure, obviously ...

ITZ UH CONSPERASSY!!11

Both houses are nice starter types.  I lol'ed at the bathroom in Minena's house where the narrow entrance was in the original, imaginining the long claustrophobic walk down the "corridor" to the sink.  ;D

Oh lord!

You'll LOVE the cellar is about all I can say at this point.  :D

Mine is done, but I need to take pictures and package it. I have no computer time when everyone is off school/work! Waaah!

I can't wait to see your cellar witch!

For most of the Stuff Packs this is true, they just don't show up. I heard of the Holiday one causing some problems as it installs more like an EP, but I have no hard evidence of this.

The only pack I don't have at this point is Ikea.

Is getting the pond to show up at ground level as opposed to at basement level part of using the flat lot, or is it to do with floor elevation cheats?

I'm on holiday for a few more days, then I'll attempt to finish my 2nd house for this month.

Loving the entries so far :D

He he he, come on down EMMA, just me 'n' my axe down here....

Tee hee!

*Emma runs

This is my 2nd makeover of the house for August. I used the flattened lot from this thread for my 2nd house. This lot has a "Southwestern" theme with palm trees, terracotta tiles throughout most of the house and light stucco colors inside and out.

1 Sunset Boulevard - Furnished
For Single Sims or Couples Without Children

Actual Value: Around $147,333
Wanded Cost: Around $73,100

CC: No
Expansion Packs: ALL
Stuff Packs: ALL

1 Bedroom
1.5 Bathrooms  (If there is an "oops" baby in the family, the full bathroom on the 2nd floor can be made smaller to create a 2nd bedroom. Full bathroom on 2nd floor and half bathroom in the basement)

Kitchen  (Sink not included!)
Basement  (Game room, study area and tv room)
Dining Room
Pets Alcove  (Private area for pets to relax, sleep, eat and chew/scratch toys - Bowl and bed included but no pet toys)
Hot Tub and Patio  (2nd floor patio with bar and telescope)
Outdoor Pool  (What better way to beat the summer heat than to cool off in the pool?)
Garden  (Complete with three trees (1 fruit each), a large plot of soil for planting and ladybug houses)
Driveway

*Trashcan moved to an area behind the fence on the right side of the house to keep the trashcan kickers from having their fun*
*Fenced/gated to keep the coyotes out and skunks away from the pool*
*Green overhead lights removed from basement - I used them to light the basement because it was damn dark in there*

Not included - Kitchen sinks, Sims, Cars and Pets


Slideshow (Click to start):



Download from Mediafire:

http://www.mediafire.com/?vdtni9m6w9x (http://www.mediafire.com/?vdtni9m6w9x)


**P.S. Thank you for the tips, Witch **

/me snipes Emma.

If you run, you'll just die tired! Death to Emma!

I really like that one a lot, Chaavik. All the warm colors throughout the house are nice. I really like the look of the blue bathroom as well. Nice job.

Missed! Nyah.

Chaavik, your house is lovely, nice style throughout.

I'm pretty sure that wasn't a miss. There's just probably nothing VITAL in there. I forgot that it was an EMMA.

This is my second and final attempt at this crazy house. I give you Gym's Bar Nowhere.  It's a home business, on three floors. There are no Awesomespecs on this one: no nursery, no pool, no garden. My playtester is too busy for a social, family or horticultural life.

Front elevation

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3178/2758622671_8abffd8e97.jpg?v=0)

Basement club, featuring poker, juice bar, karaoke. The photo booth tucked in down there is a sop to my Romance playtester, since he really only has time for a quickie these days.

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3169/2759462474_ddc3a983c0.jpg?v=0)
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3199/2759462520_eb1b0b648d.jpg?v=0)
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3096/2758623417_d02f341815.jpg?v=0)

Ground floor gym and sauna. The decor in here in this section is light and airy, in contrast to the hot tubs, gaming machines and mah jong rooms, where the decor is dark and moody, to match the basement club (blame my puritan upbringing: fitness = good/light; gambling = bad/dark). There are a number of adjoining rooms, which you can close off as preferred.  Currently my playtester is having trouble getting good staff, so he's only operating the gym, sauna and mah jong rooms.  Once I get him a suitable mate to help run the place, he should be able to open up more rooms.  Maybe then he'll stop haemorrhaging cash and cut a profit occasionally.

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3253/2759462412_6dc83ed79f.jpg?v=0)
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3264/2759462754_833d3593cd.jpg?v=0)
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3128/2758623519_9c4b80f32f.jpg?v=0)

First floor apartment.  I kept this area light, since he's going to be spending so much time in subterranean gloom. It's set up for a single, but with room to expand onto the terrace area eventually.

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3269/2759462350_f60609b391.jpg?v=0)

Kitchen: What can I say? All that crimson and black in the working day makes a guy come over all girly pink in his down time.

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3282/2758622739_ce605ac340.jpg?v=0)

Lounge

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3105/2758622799_6161128a4e.jpg?v=0)

Bedroom

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3104/2758622877_903ac855fc.jpg?v=0)

Bathroom

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3017/2758622927_9fcbf88c5c.jpg?v=0)

Unwanded, it comes in at $193,610. I have all EPs and no SPs.

http://www.4shared.com/file/58895992/cc7533b2/Gyms_Bar_Nowhere.html (http://www.4shared.com/file/58895992/cc7533b2/Gyms_Bar_Nowhere.html)

Jim, that is amazing! I love it :D A real playboy's pad.

Here is my 2nd and final attempt-I used the flat lot for this one. It comes in at just under §205k (no magic wand used) and has 3 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms. Nursery is on first floor, with it's own separate bath. Parking is for one car on a single driveway. I followed Hecubus' suggestion of removing foundation and replacing with walls to let light through in the basement. Now down there is a pool, music room and workout room. There is a kitchen with separate dining room, living room/study, and a large crafting/skilling area on the third floor. Small gardening area and fruit trees and a tiny pond. There is also a covered grilling/eating area that can be built on if more space is needed. I tried to keep a greenish colour scheme throughout, apart from the nursery. I couldn't face using the green cribs as they are horrible. All EPs/SPs. Not playtested as yet.

Click picture for slideshow:

(http://s291.photobucket.com/albums/ll294/Emma_M_71/73_Road_To_Nowhere/73_RTN_Flat/th_snapshot_0000000a_75af2a24.jpg) (http://s291.photobucket.com/albums/ll294/Emma_M_71/73_Road_To_Nowhere/73_RTN_Flat/?action=view&current=73be7549.pbw)

Download:

73_Road_to_Nowhere_Flat_Emma.zip (http://www.4shared.com/file/58901272/178dd75e/73_Road_to_Nowhere_Flat_Emma.html)

Needs more dead Emma. And 5 bathrooms? Who did you plagiarize this from? This does not sound like an EMMA construction.

*Emma moons Pescado

You just don't get it do you? I actually do include lots of bathrooms in all my lots, apart from starter houses! They only get one. Silly old Pescado! I have improved on my earlier stuff. So nyah. :P

It beats me how you manage to fit so much into such a tiny house, without it looking cramped at all.  Your other house was just as spacious - and brimming with bathrooms, I'm sure.

I'll have to get me some stuff packs. You've used some great wall treatments, that I just don't have.  I'm not an arrrrer (I know, I know, but I've always figured the labourer is worthy of his toil, even if his bosses do try to stiff you with hostile security.) I'll pay up for actual programme content, but never just for stuff.  You're tempting me, though.

@jim: That would make a really great community lot! (I never do home businesses;P)

@Emma: I really like you're color schemes. I never even thought of the fact that you can put some of the hobby deco on the floor. Nice touch!

@Chaavik: That house would look great in my Strangetown.  :)

Shit Emma! That house is massive  :o
I plan on entering this contest eventualy..I just can't be bothered right now.

Beautiful job, Emma. I am worried that this lot will make game play slower, but, I don't care. I am going to make a new family especially for this house.

@Tingeling: Well, of course it was your basement that got me thinking along those lines. I'd prefer it as a community lot too, but didn't know how to convert it from a residential lot to a community lot.  It's pretty much running itself now, though, and making about $7000 a day, so it's ok.

You were all so awesome from the last challenge, by the time I was done mine looked to much like some others. I chickened out. This time, I have yet to look at the others. Will do so after I finish this post.

These was a close to awesome as I got. The entry way was slightly changed, by the exterior wall the front door was on.  I think I got most of the rest.
§136,008  Fully furnished.
I have ALL Ep's & SP's.
4 Bedrooms
4 Bathroom
Basement home gym
Download
http://www.sendspace.com/file/0cixaa (http://www.sendspace.com/file/0cixaa)
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y97/mamainred/Aug%20House/FrontofHouse.jpg)
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y97/mamainred/Aug%20House/Sideback.jpg)
(http://[IMG]http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y97/mamainred/Aug%20House/FirstFloor.jpg)
(http://[IMG]http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y97/mamainred/Aug%20House/SecondStory.jpg)
(http://[IMG]http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y97/mamainred/Aug%20House/KitchenDinning.jpg)
(http://[IMG]http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y97/mamainred/Aug%20House/Livingroom.jpg)
More pics
(http://s3.photobucket.com/albums/y97/mamainred/Aug%20House/th_FirstFloor.jpg) (http://s3.photobucket.com/albums/y97/mamainred/Aug%20House/?action=view&current=74fd6211.pbw)

This is really fun to see how differently we all made over this lot.  Mine is less than awesome, but it was a fun challenge. 

So many great ideas. All I can say is great job to all of you.

Those are beautiful lots I've seen so far! Great jobs!

@Emma: My goodness, that's a lot of bathrooms packed into a tiny lot! Still, a very beautiful house.  :)

@Jim: That would be a great home business for my Sim to run and meet "potential" customers.  ;D

@Mamainred: Beautiful house for sure! Just one detail I saw with this house. The original exterior walls in the front looked like they were deleted. (The walls that formed the T and the two small front rooms - former kitchen and bathroom). Other than that detail, the house looked great.

Oh man! No-one is going to believe I didn't copy off you! I've just finished decorating in very similar stucco colours - even down to using a lot of the mission furniture.  :D

Very nice though! Did you know if you put the built in hot tub on the roof, the sims think there is no roof? I've had to use the standalone hot tub in similar circumstances. Unless EAxis have actually fixed that glitch, but it's probably a vain hope.

Whoops, I see we've gone to a new page, I'll be back to comment.

@Emma - wow, like Jim, there are a bunch of wall treatments I don't have. Your slideshow goes a bit too fast for me, I wanted to see how you managed that appalling entrance! I particularly like the black bathroom and the pale green kid's room. (I also followed Aggies suggestion about the foundation to let light into my cellar).

@mamainred. Nice family home, it's interesting how different the lot looks in lush mode. Good looking kitchen too, it's a nice size for all those damn appliances.  :D

@jim: It seems like quite the luxurious house, perfect for entertaining guests and making a profit.

I'm going to enter a second house for August. This time, I'm making a restaurant/nightclub for downtown. I'm just wondering what people considered to be a reasonable amount of NPCs. NPC's require memory when generated, right? So, if I have 3 for the restaurant, 2 for the bars + 1 dj and 1 fire dancer, will that be too much?

@ Witch:  :D I want to see your house when you're done! These types of houses are my favorite and they reminded me of the times I lived in California and Florida. There were alot of stucco houses with varying themes, but there are always a handful of houses with Southwestern themes peppering the neighborhoods here and there. Unfortunately, Maxis didn't offer more varying themes to really satisfy us who liked to create Tex-Mex, Oriental, Morrocan, African and general-themed homes and businesses to add ethnic flavor to our neighborhoods. There aren't very many good stucco colors to use ingame, nor were there more complete sets of furniture to at least give our homes an unique look!

Is there a limit to how many houses/businesses we can enter for this?


Edit:

I didn't know about that issue with hot tubs and roofs. I placed the hot tub (like the one featured on the patio with the stucco house) on the roof of one dorm, and my Sims had no problems using it, nor did they think there was no roof. BUT if the issue does happen with the hot tub on the patio, just replace it with a standalone hot tub.

Many sub-tropical New Zealand homes have a Mexican or South Western feel.


Doubt it.  ;D

witch:

(http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll294/Emma_M_71/73_Road_To_Nowhere/73_RTN_Flat/snapshot_0000000a_b5af2a56.jpg)

The original entrance is now the stairway to the basement and I have put the main entrance on the right between the 2 yellow flowerpots.


Chaavik, you can enter as many times as you like btw ;) The more the merrier!

Thanks Emma, it works with being enclosed - didn't think of that.

Here is my entry for the month of Aw Gust.

I decided to go with the spare bleached look of a desert. I didn't like the house so I made it very basic and simple, just a three bedroom, two bathroom basic house. §81,878 with custom content, §79,877 without. I have all EPs. There is room for expansion upstairs in the current hobby/skilling room.

So without further ado.
Aw Gust Desert
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v730/nz_witch/Aw%20Gust%20Desert/140808_AugustHouse_witch001.jpg)


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v730/nz_witch/Aw%20Gust%20Desert/140808_AugustHouse_witch002.jpg)


Top floor skilling room
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v730/nz_witch/Aw%20Gust%20Desert/140808_AugustHouse_witch004.jpg)


Ground floor - walls up
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v730/nz_witch/Aw%20Gust%20Desert/140808_AugustHouse_witch005.jpg)


Ground floor - walls down
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v730/nz_witch/Aw%20Gust%20Desert/140808_AugustHouse_witch006.jpg)


View of the bastard entrance from the lounge
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v730/nz_witch/Aw%20Gust%20Desert/140808_AugustHouse_witch013.jpg)


But wait! What's this? Where does this mysterious middle door lead?
You descend the stairs to the North.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v730/nz_witch/Aw%20Gust%20Desert/140808_AugustHouse_witch007.jpg)


You turn to the West.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v730/nz_witch/Aw%20Gust%20Desert/140808_AugustHouse_witch009.jpg)


You turn to the East.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v730/nz_witch/Aw%20Gust%20Desert/140808_AugustHouse_witch011.jpg)


Do you go North and have a much-needed drink at the bar?
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v730/nz_witch/Aw%20Gust%20Desert/140808_AugustHouse_witch008.jpg)


Or do you go South to find a comfortable chair to sit on. It's all been a bit unexpected, really.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v730/nz_witch/Aw%20Gust%20Desert/140808_AugustHouse_witch010.jpg)



(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v730/nz_witch/Aw%20Gust%20Desert/140808_AugustHouse_witch012.jpg)


This lot contains three large fish from Savage Sims. A hammerhead shark, a marlin and a dolphin. You can download those separately or in place in the lot.


Aw Gust Desert with CC (http://www.box.net/shared/zkxgvkb49q)

Aw Gust Desert without CC (http://www.box.net/shared/z4692h1x3t)

Savage Sims fish (http://www.box.net/shared/p19cgvbgzi)

Anyone who saw the Aquarium lot I recently uploaded will guess where I got my inspiration from!  :D

That is so nice, Witch. I love the aquarium room. I want to live there.

witch, that is so nice! I love the arches on the 3rd floor and the basement is just gorgeous!

Cheers people.


Why don't you just go ahead and make it the way you think it should be made? People will delete bars or fire dancer mats, or whatever, if they don't want them. Personally I don't think that sounds too many. I want some new entertainment venues, so I'm looking forward to seeing what you do.

Well, it was worth the wait. I am so grabbing that hammerhead!  He would look just right in a nice big fishing pond, too - one with a flimsy little jetty overhanging the water.  I'm betting my stupid graphics card would see the fish then alright.

I'd want to put a bed down there - how luxurious to sleep in a room with seaquarium walls!  So, I'm downloading this - and trying it first off in one of my low-lying plots where the basement will flood, just to give the shark a little treat.

That is absolutely fantastic! I never thought about using aquariums for that sort of room. Hmm sharks..... Would be useful to recreate a beach with sharks to micmic JAWS!  ;D

I think I will do a commerical lot later.

@witch. Wow, I haven't seen many aquariums. The basement is such an awesome hideaway. As for the rest of the house, I especially love the archway outside that really gives it that southern feel.

No-one had an answer to my question?

Oh well.

I've just gotten back from the "Winterless North" (The Bay Of Islands, North Island, New Zealand).
It rained and I caught a bad cold.

Time for another attempt at this House Of Fail.

You didn't happen to catch "the storm of the decade" about a fortnight ago, did you? We didn't get it too bad in the Bay of Plenty. It sure has been raining non-stop this winter.

I'm in Auck, so we got it a little - I mean, it didn't take our roof off or anything, but two of my cockatiels died from the cold/rain/wind.

Bummer, sorry to hear that. I know it sounds odd, but I always feel sorry for birds during a storm.

BTW I'm in Tauranga, only a couple of hours down the line from you. I'll be in Orcland next month for a conference. I get to stay in the Sky City Hotel; which is pretty much the main reason I said yes to the conference.  ;D Well, apart from the fact it's a semi-techie conference and we often get neat little toys to take away.

Hahaha.

The Sky City hotel has a pool on the roof - don't go swimming unless you want the whole of the tourist population watching - they can see you from the Sky Tower.

Have fun at the conference, don't order room service, have a play at the casino.

I've had enough of the house from hell. 

I'm stunned. It's like Underwaterworld in the basement.

Okay, comp over, Witch wins August. Again.

Here is my second entry for this month's house. Instead of a house, I present to you a community lot.

Welcome to Destination Nowhere!
(http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/snapshot_55a6f24c_95b0eb61.jpg)

Back of the building
(http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/snapshot_55a6f24c_55b0ef98.jpg)

Tranquility Garden
(http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/snapshot_55a6f24c_d5b0effd.jpg)

Restaurant
(http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/snapshot_55a6f24c_95b0ee1b.jpg)

Bar
(http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/snapshot_55a6f24c_d5b0ec12.jpg)

Lounge
(http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/snapshot_55a6f24c_f5b0ed21.jpg)

Club
(http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/snapshot_55a6f24c_55b0f191.jpg)


Basement: Includes dance floor, dj, bar, bubble blower area and spin machine
(http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/snapshot_55a6f24c_b5b0ef7c.jpg)

First Floor: Includes bar area w/tv, lounge area to play pool, bathrooms, outdoor jacuzzi, tranquility gardens
(http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/snapshot_55a6f24c_b5b0ef65.jpg)

Second Floor: Includes restaurant, outside patio, kitchen, hallway to elevator
(http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/snapshot_55a6f24c_b5b0ef55.jpg)

For more pictures, check out this slideshow:
(http://s31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/th_snapshot_55a6f24c_95b0eb61.jpg) (http://s31.photobucket.com/albums/c354/maaya2021/NowhereHouse/?action=view&current=58a849d0.pbw)


I have all the EPs and no SPs.
Download Destination Nowhere($177 K) (http://www.4shared.com/file/59132627/2a823af/Destination_Nowhere_2.htm)

Wow, that's really inspired and I love how you used the "photo" wallpaper in there.

I love the name.

Ok, I've done another house. This one is inspired by the Open for Business color scheme. That is, a good house for Barbie.  ;)
Again, I have all stuffpacks and expansions plus the house is cleaned with clean installer.

Front of house:
(http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn65/AnnaTingeling/73%20RTN%202%20by%20Tingeling/snapshot_0000000d_15af6b76.jpg)

Back:
(http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn65/AnnaTingeling/73%20RTN%202%20by%20Tingeling/snapshot_0000000d_95af6b32.jpg)

Kitchen:
(http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn65/AnnaTingeling/73%20RTN%202%20by%20Tingeling/snapshot_0000000d_b5af6ca3.jpg)

Upstairs bathroom:
(http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn65/AnnaTingeling/73%20RTN%202%20by%20Tingeling/snapshot_0000000d_15af6d5e.jpg)

First floor layout:
(http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn65/AnnaTingeling/73%20RTN%202%20by%20Tingeling/snapshot_0000000d_95af6bfd.jpg)

Second floor layout:
(http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn65/AnnaTingeling/73%20RTN%202%20by%20Tingeling/snapshot_0000000d_f5af6bc7.jpg)

Basement, featuring a sauna, third bathroom, jacuzzi and indoor pool.
(http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn65/AnnaTingeling/73%20RTN%202%20by%20Tingeling/snapshot_0000000d_15af6c08.jpg)

House is avaiable here (http://rapidshare.de/files/40242956/73_RTN_nr2_by_Tingeling.Sims2Pack.html).
Additional pictures are here (http://s301.photobucket.com/albums/nn65/AnnaTingeling/73%20RTN%202%20by%20Tingeling/).

Wait... we CAN use CC? Awww maaaann...

-stomps off to completely redo the house, currently in playtest mode-

Well, I think you're not supposed to if you want to be all tech-nickel about the rules, but eh.

Tingeling, I do like the way you used those, um, I think it's Fairy Tale (?), wallpapers and floors. I've never used those in my game, but you make it work. I especially like the upstairs bathroom. I've been working on my own, but I realized pretty early on that I despise it. I just can't make it look the way I want. Stupid house.

Nice avatar.  :D
Yeah.. I suppose it's one of those "or words to that effect" things.. maybe I'll make two versions, one chock full of CC and Life Stories wallpapers and a second with No Downloads Needed content.

Mine is coming in two versions...when I finish it. I'm having issues with the roofing not making me happy.

Nice one Maayabee - I like the tranquillity garden, but that's probably just an indication that I'm getting old!  :D I didn't know the DJ booths had the coloured lights round the bottom, like in your pictures. I've also never managed to stack those coloured blocks higher than two, apparently it's possible to stack them higher.

Tingeling, dunno about the outside, bit I do love the fairytale kitchen! I see you're nearly in the bath taking the bathroom photo, I thought that was very realistic and it made me laugh.

PS As for CC, I tend to offer both alternatives, with and without. I do try to mostly use EAxis stuff just for the downloader's convenience.

Just stack two, then place those two blocks on top of another one block. Then stack those three onto another one ect. Keep repeating until you reach the desired height. It's not exactly intuitive, but it can be done.

Oh.

No, not intuitive!  :D Not that I spent very long trying when they first came out.

Very cool house, Witch. Love the aquarium. And I like that you made it a desert dwelling, it'll look great in my Strangetown.
Emma's house is incredible! Loving all the nice colors.

Thanks SalixTree!

Death to EMMA! (I said it for you, Pescado :P)

Hey SalixTree, I noticed you finished those Goopy clothes :D Very nice! I was going to write you in your guestbook but the page wouldn't load for me. The formal is especially nice (if a slight too Goopyish for my tastes) I am sure my awesomeland sim would love them though. ;D

hee heee! Too Goopyish for Emma? :o
I've been so busy, wanted to make one of each type of clothing, but it'll have to wait till some future date.
(I've got a soft spot for the Goop myself. shhh...)

It doesn't matter here, Goopy is mine. More's the pity. You can declare undying love if you want and it wouldn't matter :D

THERE IS NO GOOPY!

The Road To Nowhere is now the Road To A Party!

Home Business + bunker house.

Front:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/yecatsnz/snapshot_00000002_f5b63022.jpg)


Top of lot (mmm... trees)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/yecatsnz/snapshot_00000002_55b6302d.jpg)


Bunker House Floorplan:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/yecatsnz/snapshot_00000002_75b631ce.jpg)


My favorite image:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/yecatsnz/snapshot_00000002_f5b6323c.jpg)

Slideshow of all the rooms, features and lighting:
(http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v457/yecatsnz/th_snapshot_00000002_f5b63022.jpg) (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v457/yecatsnz/?action=view&current=0701c9a6.pbw)


Download:
http://www.4shared.com/file/59861304/5206a32a/Road_to_a_Party.html
                      ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2 Bedroom house with single crib, nice flow from hallway to dining room, living room and then kitchen.  Bathroom is shared by both bedrooms.  Stairs are locked from the top, and are only able to be entered through the Bar. 

Water and Fire come together to create an enchanting front-of-house, while the lights and music make even the worst slap-dancer a fantastic smustler.  Ample seating around the deck entry, and seats at the bar provide comfort for those drunken regulars.

Pay per the hour and make use of the hot spring & basketball court, or just relax on a hammock.

ITEMS I FORGOT:
I forgot to put a gate in the Bar entry - If you have the DMA sims set, you can remove a section of the counter and place 2 gates - one normal, one DMA.  Entry to the house is through this door only. 
I didn't put a fire alarm or phone in the house at all.
There may be other vital things I've forgotten to add.

I'm a real convert to the home bar idea. I stopped testing Gym's Bar Nowhere and started playing it for real.  It's open round the clock unstaffed, bringing in $17-20000 a day, and all my sim has to do for that is clean the toilets once a day.  He's at the top of his career ladder, with a permaplat wife, two kids, and a load of property to his name, all from this crazy house. Your bar looks a lot more fun than mine, so it should be a real money spinner - definitely worth trying out.

That was my idea too, have the bar open 24/7 and lock off the house.  If needed, I could easily include hobbies, a couple of the Dream Team's trinnion bunks and a shower just by reducing the deck space.
Include a buffet and a few tables somewhere maybe.

Emma, you were the one who said
So I don't think he'd mind hooking up with SalixTree.

YeCats: I've never had a bar/club homebusiness. Doesn't it get bothersome to have so many random sims trampling in the house? Although, the income factor is kinda neat.

So, what's the September house?

I'm loving these home-business and community lots; they really make fun use of this twisted little house!
Witch, I heart the hell out of your basement aquarium, which I think will work just fine even without the cc wildlife. Fabulous concept!

Dangit, I'm finally about to finish my entry, and now I'm getting ideas about a different way to do it. Augh! To save my sanity I'd better just finish the first as planned and then start a 2nd if the idea still itches.

there are 2 peices of CC : bottomless recolorable stairs and off centerd taller columns
2 bed 4 both...basement can be turnwed into bedroom if needed
(this house...its all fucked...when i first started the basement grid footprint was all over the place...all floortiles went up to the roof  >:(  i have no idea how i fixed it...but it pissed me off so much i almsot gave up.)
(http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i236/fergiefan12/snapshot_00000002_55bd7b06.jpg)
(http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i236/fergiefan12/snapshot_00000002_35bd7b6c.jpg)
(http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i236/fergiefan12/snapshot_00000002_75bd7b4c.jpg)
(http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i236/fergiefan12/snapshot_00000002_35bd7b53.jpg)
(http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i236/fergiefan12/snapshot_00000002_f5bd7b24-1.jpg)

http://www.4shared.com/file/60275524/6c3362ab/73_Road_to_Nowhere_001.html

requires all EPS. K&B and IKEA stuff

Great job, Cockroach! I love the colour scheme - very Arizona resort chic, but it still feels like a home. The blue flooring in the bath & bedroom stand out a bit, given the overall tone of the house, but that's a totally minor quibble. I like the landings on the way to the basement - good use of that floor tile to set them off. I also really like the decks. Glad you didn't give up!

I'm not in love with the idea of CC starting to creep into these entries, but you've used these two pieces to good effect here.  ;)

thanks :D
i know the rules say no CC but the maxis columns are to short so that whould have looked dumb...and i hate using stairs with bottoms when using that foundation decking becuse it looks dumb :(

I really like how you worked that awful entrance, with the little twisty stairs going down. I also think you've added some real interest with the lounge being a different level to the kitchen etc. Plus, the roof snuggling in to the top storey is a great touch.

MaayaBee: I haven't actually played it yet, but I figure if it's anything like a comm lot, the computer forgets about whats happening upstairs if you go down to the basement and vice versa. 
The extra income from the ticket machines won't hurt.


Witch: My cockatiels have eggs!  5 at last count.  2 months till baby birds (that aren't at risk of being smushed by me), then I'll attempt to start rearing them. :D


I'm still debating creating a 3rd house for the month.  I have one - a houseboat, but I'm not too fond of it.  Might try to turn it into a pseudo hobby lot or something. 

Do we have a house for September yet?

I keep messing with this and keep being disappointed in the result. Right now the version I'm working on is supposed to be an old folk's home, ready for Apartment Life, which I can't decide if it will contain four sleeping/bath areas or six, and the roof lines are again being mean. This was definitely a good challenge; the outer wall placement makes coming up with a good change difficult.

After at least 4 tries, each with different designs in mind, I gave up. I absolutely hate this house. I couldn't get the layout to flow the way I wanted and if I got close, the roof line would look stupid. I are fail. I'm hoping that I'll be able to have more fun with next month's house.

Part of the bitch of this house is its proximity to the sidewalk. If it were just a few squares back it'd be much easier to smooth into a better shape. I actually have house #1 just about ready to post, but I got pulled back in with an idea for #2 that's not turning out a thing like I'd imagined. Weird fricking house, this one is!

I have a house that I'd like to use next month. Any objections?

To you having a preference? Of course not, have all the preferences you like.
(Yes, I know you meant objections to you calling dibs on next month's pick. I have none. Pay no attention to the smartass behind the curtain.)

Tell us more...

which one is it?
i say we use that little yellow house in srangetown...the one across from the Smiths

I know at one point, someone mentioned the Tower House.. The three alienraep loving brothers' place?

Go for it. Any clues? ;D

Pleasantview. :)


That's right, I remember that now.

How about doing both? Have two threads a month, each with a house or community lot from a different neighborhood. Rotate through all the <sub>neighborhood(s) fixing all of the crappy houses.

Or, I don't mind waiting until October.</sub>


Smartasses? On MATY? Surely you jest!

Maybe we should actually vote on the houses, and let the winner pick the next house.  Any thoughts on that?  It would make it a real contest instead of a challenge.

No strong feelings either way about actually voting, but if we do, we'll have to change the due date, to leave time for voting before the next month started. I do know I'd rather keep this going just one thread at a time.

Not this month, then.  Perhaps we should try making it a contest next month, ending at 00:01 Malaysian time on the 27th to give a few days to vote.  Jesslla can include it as a new rule when she starts the new thread on the 1st, unless the general preference is to keep things casual.

Sounds fun. People who submitted more than one lot would have an advantage, but perhaps that's as it should be. Anyways...I'm done! Woohoo!

Download here (http://www.4shared.com/file/60601743/15a8db1/Zazazu_73_Road_to_Nowhere67212.html)

Features:

• 4 1-bedroom apartments of varying sizes
• Elevator access to second floor, so you don't break your hip
• Outdoor chess area
• Public access kitchen...please keep all the baked alaska to a minimum, as no fire alarm is included. You start it, you put it out.
• Lovely grand piano
• Seating area well-placed for gossiping busy-bodies
• Cost: $67,212, though designed to be converted to an apartment complex by replacing brown doors with apartment doors, single mailbox with multi model, and rezoning
• EPs required: All up to and including FreeTime. At least one Kitchen & Bath item used. Lot will work without K&B.

External
(http://img82.imageshack.us/img82/558/snapshot0000000235c0853yj3.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)

Ground Floor
(http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/3889/snapshot00000002d5c0858mx0.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)

Second Floor
(http://img411.imageshack.us/img411/4010/snapshot00000002f5c0857hf6.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)

Feature thumbnails
(http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/4257/snapshot00000002d5c0861pc8.th.jpg) (http://img511.imageshack.us/my.php?image=snapshot00000002d5c0861pc8.jpg)    (http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/8574/snapshot0000000235c085eno6.th.jpg) (http://img511.imageshack.us/my.php?image=snapshot0000000235c085eno6.jpg)
(http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/677/snapshot0000000295c0860me1.th.jpg) (http://img511.imageshack.us/my.php?image=snapshot0000000295c0860me1.jpg)    (http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/8499/snapshot00000002b5c085blb4.th.jpg) (http://img511.imageshack.us/my.php?image=snapshot00000002b5c085blb4.jpg)

The thought was that this could be used as an old folk's home, or some sort of semi-communal living facility.

How about a poll in next months thread (end voting on September 27) to see how many people want to turn this into a contest starting in October? Or should we just let people state a preference here and start the contest (or not) in September?

Whoever wins the contest picks the house next time. Sounds fun!

Zazazu, that is gorgeous! Are those elevators? I don't think I've ever used an elevator in my game :D

I do like your outdoor chess area. Not too sure about the wisdom of sitting a couple of old folks next to a fountain for hours, though! Maybe there should be a public loo close by?

I've often wondered why people didn't use elevators in the houses they post.  It saves such a lot of space. It can be a drag if you've got a largish family who all want to go upstairs together, and wouldn't dream of going in the elevator together, but it should work well in an apartment-type situation.

This would convert nicely to a student house as well.  I've got three sets of twins, all friends, all just gone off to university together.  Their parents have temporarily impoverished themselves to fill the kids' inventories with stuff to make their time at uni comfortable.  I'm downloading your house for them, making it a young folks' home, I suppose.

Personally I'm enjoying the casual nature of this challenge. Plus, if I won one, I'd have to go and find a lot to renovate and I'm really far too lazy. I'd rather sit here and wait for other people to trawl through the crap.  ;D

However, I'll go with the majority decision, 'cos I really don't mind too much either way.

Zazazu, it's gorgeous! You really nailed the feel of a 'community living' center. The covered walkways and entrance are *very* effective, and I love your use of the white brick mini-fencing. This might be just the lot I've been looking for to start my Senior Living subhood. Orsum, Zaz!

Yep, elevators. I don't use elevators too much, but they just make more sense than stairs in an apartment building to me. Plus, I could see stairs being an issue for a real elder.

That effect used with the walls in the chess area is something I haven't done for ages...I was looking over an old 'hood I had on my laptop and saw a house I'd made that used that and really wanted to incorporate it again. The tight spacing there made it challenging. I had to delete the sidewalk temporarily.

The core of the house wasn't touched at all. I deleted interior walls, roofing, and added a wall to the very center front. That's it...everything else was add-on.

Zazazu, that is stunning.


I like the casual nature as well. I prefer challenge to contest in this case.

As far as which house to do, I don't have a problem with someone saying "I picked one, shall we?" and like we've done before, either say "oh cool" or "hey, what about this one instead" because goodness knows there are enough craptastic Maxis houses to keep us busy for years.

I had a look back through the thread and did come up with my top five and the major reason for each.
They're in chronological order, not order of preference.

Emma's for use of Seasons and Freetime Goodies. I tend to forget to try out all the new stuffs, so lots that feature them are cool, and this looks really playable and fun.

Witche's for the lovely adobe exterior and the ultra winful basement. This lot requires further study for copying inspiration purposes.

Salix Tree's for the overall peaceful feeling of natural goodness.

MaayaBee's for excellent downtown pizazz.

Zazazu's for being institutional but still appealing, and having so many AL possibilities.

Umm... my guess for that would be the wooden shack.

Msalwaysright: Thanks for the compliment. Unfortunately, my community lot logistically sound for townies/NPC. Stupid sims kept on eating at the bars, which forced my host and waiter to go to the first floor and basement. This in turn, blocked the elevator and made sims do a long detour through the stairs.

I guess I was trying to design a "realistic" bar/restaurant/club and didn't think about gameplay. I'm still pretty happy about how it looks, but seeing townies and NPC's doing unnecessary detours piss me off.

One thing I noticed about elevators is that the pinging noise when the door opens gets old very fast. So, maybe that's a reason why ppl don't use it as much in their construction.

Once again I've dawdled until the end of the month, and now I have to do a quick drive-by posting while literally on my way out the door to Bangkok for the weekend. Whoo for the holiday; less whoo for the attempted governmental coup currently in process. Should be fun. Aaaaaanyway... my take on 73 RtN, which thoroughly kicked my ass. Attempted Awesomespec. Usual jiggerypokery in moveobjects/diagonal/etcetera. Not playtested; should be ample room for skilling/rewards. Built with all but K&B, TSS, IKEA & AL. Think there's only, like, one plant from Celebration. Can post more detailed pics when I get back, but here's the basics... hope you enjoy!

(http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a92/lizziecup/73RtN/front.jpg)

(http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a92/lizziecup/73RtN/rear.jpg)

(http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a92/lizziecup/73RtN/basement1.jpg)

(http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a92/lizziecup/73RtN/downstairs_full.jpg)

(http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a92/lizziecup/73RtN/upstairs_full.jpg)

Ooh, forgot to mention the price, which is... written down in a notebook somewhere around here. Will add later if I find. But it's wanded, for your protection. ;)
Download (http://rapidshare.com/files/139486542/73RtN_Liz.rar)

Oh nice job Liz! I particularly like the way you have the stairs where the bar/pool/hottub area is. That's a fetching brick, someone else used it too and I though I must try it. I also like the way you've got the easel on a little platform, nice accent.

My entry is finished and so is The Incubator's incubation! She's popped and we have a spiffy little female spawn. Due to having been up for over three days... I can't add my entry tonight. Might not get it in till after the first. HOWEVER... I will be dropping it off in case anyone would like a copy. Woo! -faceplants into bed-

Thank you, msalwaysright, for the lovely compliment. ;) .. comes from living out in the middle of nowhere.


hmm.. well oki.. *looks a little sheepish*
er.. I have to go.. a secret rendezvous.. with ummm.. someone.. er.. not Goopy, nope.

My entry is still underway but almost finished. Feces occurs and I'm still not caught up. Playing with my new Sims stuff has made it much more fun, though!  ;D

 :-[ So sorry Emma. The Goop has expired. Blackwater Hattie, the Swamp Witch, put him in the pool without a ladder.  :'(

Oh dear. What a shame.

*Emma sniggers

WAY late, but the baby spawn has finally settled into some sort of rhythm and so have we. Figured I'd upload while I had the chance.


(http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t83/Strange-Angel/Locations/Front.jpg)

MOAR Levels img (http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t83/Strange-Angel/Locations/Levels.jpg)

MOAR Detail img (http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t83/Strange-Angel/Locations/Details.jpg)

Download (http://www.4shared.com/file/62624195/839b9800/Strangel_August_MATY.html)


All packs & expansions up to Seasons, nothing beyond that. Car not included. Baby on kitchen floor, child in front yard not included. I blanked on how much the lot runs, but I did use the wand.